Emergency Preparedness Week – Plan for Every Season

The City of Owen Sound reminds residents and visitors to ‘Be Prepared’ during Emergency Preparedness Week, May 4 to 10, 2025. 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 theme is “Plan for Every Season.” It highlights the importance of preparing for seasonal risks and emergencies, recognizing that each time of year brings unique challenges for Ontario residents.

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.

Understanding Seasonal Risks

Spring:

Flooding is more likely during the spring thaw or heavy rain. Review your emergency plan and kit with flood risks in mind.

Summer:

Prepare for extreme heat, wildfires, and thunderstorms by keeping your home cool, staying hydrated, and monitoring weather alerts. Consider backup power supplies for critical needs.

Fall:

Changing weather can bring heavy rain, high winds, and early ice storms. Falling leaves can clog drainage systems and eavestroughs.  Check for home leaks and stock up on cold-weather supplies.

Winter:

Snowstorms and freezing temperatures can cause power outages. Make sure your home is insulated and your emergency kit includes heat sources and backup power plans. Even though it seems like a long way off, now is the time to plan and implement these projects to be ready for the next winter season!

All Seasons:

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.

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

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