We work alongside other agencies to help reduce the impact on public health during emergencies, such as earthquakes, extreme weather, floods, forest fires, power outages, hazardous material spills, or thunderstorms.
Our role during an emergency may include
- issuing warnings not to drink the water
- providing flood remediation information
- inspecting sites for safety
- monitoring emergency shelters
Unlike the police or fire department, Public Health does not usually serve as a first responder during emergencies. However, in the event of a public health emergency—such as a disease outbreak in the community—public health takes the lead.
An emergency can strike at any time. Are you ready?
Extreme weather
Extreme weather is expected to increase as weather patterns are disrupted by climate change. Extreme weather events can be dangerous, but there are ways to protect your family.
Where can you get information during an active emergency?
Tune in to local TV or radio channels for emergency advisories and instructions.
Helpful links
72- hour emergency kit
It is impossible to predict everything that might happen during an emergency, but you can minimize the potential impact on your family by preparing an emergency kit to be ready to take care of yourself and your family for at least 72 hours.
Emergency kit checklist (Government of Canada)