2026 Emergency Preparedness Week

The City of Owen Sound reminds residents and visitors to ‘Be Prepared’ during Emergency Preparedness Week, May 3 to 9, 2026. This national event, held annually during the first full week of May, raises awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness for individuals, families, and communities.

This year’s provincial theme, Prepared Together, highlights the importance of preparing for seasonal risks and emergencies. Each time of year brings unique challenges for Ontario residents, and emergency readiness is a shared responsibility—we all play a role to protect our communities.

Throughout the week, the City will share practical tips and resources on social media to help residents plan and prepare for a range of emergency scenarios. Visit Owen Sound’s Emergency Planning website at OwenSound.ca/Emergency for local emergency plans, seasonal advice, and information to help residents stay safe.

Emergencies can happen without warning; being prepared makes all the difference. The best ways to get started include:

Step 1 – Make a Plan

Talk to your household about what to do in different emergencies. Where will you go? How will you stay in touch? It only takes a few minutes for your family to prepare an emergency plan.

Step 2 – Build a Kit

Create a 72-hour emergency kit with essentials like water, food, a flashlight, medications, and important documents.

Step 3 – Be Informed

Know the risks in your area and follow trusted sources like local news and @OntarioWarnings during an emergency.

Be prepared for a potential Hydro outage. If you experience an outage, you can report it online by texting ‘outage’ to 92887 (WATTS) or calling 1-800-434-1235. For tips on how to stay prepared, visit Hydro One’s website at Power Outages and Safety - Hydro One.

Ensure your fire and CO2 alarms are in working order, this is a simple and easy way to make sure you and your family stay safe.

Checking in on neighbours, family members, and vulnerable individuals is a simple but important way we can all contribute.

The City of Owen Sound encourages all residents to sign up to receive all City news, including Emergency information, to their email. Signing up is simple and easy at OwenSound.ca/Subscribe.

For more information, please contact Heidi Jennen, Community Emergency Management Coordinator, at 519-376-4440 Ext 3223 or email hjennen@owensound.ca

Quote:

"Emergencies don't give us advance notice — but we can still be ready. This week, I encourage every Owen Sound resident to make a plan, build a kit, and check in on a neighbour. Together, we're stronger."

 – Mayor Ian Boddy, City of Owen Sound

Quick Links:

·         City of Owen Sound Emergency Preparedness Webpage

·         Province of Ontario’s Emergency Preparedness Resources

·         Sign up for City of Owen Sound email news at OwenSound.ca/Subscribe

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