Emergency planning and preparedness is an important part of keeping you and your family safe in case of an emergency or disaster. The Town of East Gwillimbury has an Emergency Plan to handle big events when they occur but being preparing at home and work is a great practice. If an emergency or disaster occurs, this could impact road access, power supply, and could cause other unexpected consequences.

Know the risks

Knowing what type of emergencies that could impact your community is the first step in emergency planning. Some examples for EG include severe winter storms, flooding, power failure and infectious disease. Visit Get Prepared Canada for more information.

Create a plan

This will help your family tackle unique challenges that could arise. Families with vulnerable persons, such as seniors, pets or those with disabilities may require additional support and planning strategies. This plan should include a home escape plan.

Build a kit

It is a good idea to have an emergency kit in your home that can sustain your family for up to 72 hours.

Recommended items for a 72-hour Emergency Kit

  • Food (non-perishable)
  • Water
  • Candles and matches
  • Pet supplies
  • Emergency contact names and phone numbers
  • Extra medication
  • Extra keys
  • Games
  • Money (cash)
  • First aid kit
  • Batteries
  • Wind up radio
  • Flashlight
  • Blankets and extra clothing
  • Manual can opener
  • Supplies for babies and young children
  • Toilet paper and other personal items

This is a suggested list; however, you should include any items that would be important for your family in case of an emergency.

Other helpful tips and resources 

  1. Sign up for emergency alerts from Emergency Management Ontario
  2. Visit Get Prepared Canada
  3. Learn more at York Region Emergency Management
  4. Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Disabilities/Special Needs was prepared by the Government of Ontario's Emergency Management Ontario in partnership with the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario.
  5. Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) is responsible for the development and implementation of emergency management programs throughout Ontario. Comprehensive programs include mitigation/prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery strategies.