Emergency Preparedness Week 2023 is underway

Image: Government of Canada

Emergency Preparedness (EP) Week for 2023 officially began on May 7.

EP Week is an annual reminder “on the importance of being prepared for emergencies,” said Bill Blair, Minister of Emergency Preparedness, in a statement issued by the federal government. The theme this year is “Be Prepared. Know Your Risks,” which, added Blair, “encourages Canadians to understand the potential risks in their area and learn what actions they can take to protect themselves and their families.”

On the official “Get Prepared” website, the government has provided an EP Week toolkit, which was developed by Public Safety Canada and its partners. The online kit includes tips, videos, quizzes and other resources to help Canadians know what to do if they are faced with an emergency.

Blair also encouraged Canadians to recognize the contributions of first responders and emergency management professionals. “I am personally grateful for their dedicated service ensuring the safety of all Canadians,” he said.