Preparation starts before an emergency happens - taking time now can save critical minutes later

Emergency Planning, Alerts & Local Services

Here is a comprehensive guide to develop your plan, build an emergency kit, and make sure you stay informed should an emergency occur. 
Use this as your base and add local information where applicable:
Be Prepared For An Emergency

Post key details clearly near your phone or in another visible location
  • Property (9-1-1) number
  • Road or water access point
  • Municipality name
  • Make sure everyone knows how to describe your location clearly in an emergency

Local Emergency Numbers
Here are some numbers you should consider having on this list:

Non-emergencies

Stay Informed
Monitor alerts and conditions through:

Learn more about different emergencies and how to be prepared

Don't forget about your pets!
When preparing an emergency kit for your pet, be sure you have:
  • food, potable water, bowls, paper towel and a can opener
  • blanket and a small toy
  • sturdy leash/harness
  • cat litter/pan (if required) and plastic bags
  • carrier for transporting your pet
  • medications and medical records (including vaccinations)
  • current photo of your pet in case your pet gets lost
  • information on feeding schedules, medical or behavioral problems in case you must board your pet
  • up-to-date ID tag with your phone number and the name/phone number of your veterinarian
  • copy of licence (if required)
  • muzzle (if required)
Keep this kit in the same spot as your household emergency preparedness kit for easy retrieval. Animals get anxious during emergencies. If possible, keep your pet in a carrying cage with a familiar blanket, so your pet(s) feels as secure as possible. 

Do not leave your pet alone, with strangers or without a leash at any time. During an emergency, your pet may:
  • panic
  • behave in a distressed manner
  • run away and end up lost
  • bite someone because of the distressed state
Pets and evacuations
Pets should not be left behind during an evacuation, as they may be injured, lost or even killed as a result of the emergency. 

It is important to note that some evacuation centres may not accept pets, with the exception of service animals. Please do research ahead of time to ensure that you are not separated from your animal. You can take the following steps to be more prepared:
  • Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area and check their policy on accepting pets during an emergency.
  • Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they could shelter your pets in an emergency.
  • Prepare a list of boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency (include a 24-hour phone number).
  • Contact local animal shelters and ask if they provide shelter for pets in the event of an emergency. This should only be used as a last resort, as animal shelters have limited resources and will be very busy in an emergency.
  • Record this information on a sheet and keep it in your pet emergency kit. Review it regularly to ensure the information is accurate.
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