Be prepared. Know your risks.

Natural disasters may be beyond our control, but there are ways to reduce the risk and the impact of whatever emergency we might face.

Emergency Preparedness Week (May 4-10, 2025) encourages Canadians to take concrete actions to be better prepared to protect themselves and their families during emergencies.

By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies – anytime, anywhere. It is important to:

  • Know the risks – Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to our community and our region can help you better prepare.
  • Make a plan – It will help you and your family know what to do
  • Get an emergency kit – During an emergency, we will all need some basic supplies. We may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency.

Read on for resources to help you and your loved ones be better prepared, and take the EP Week quiz for your chance to win an Emergency Preparedness Kit!

Resources

Emergencies can happen at any time, often without warning. Across Canada—and here in Perth—we face a variety of natural and human-made hazards. Being aware of the risks in your area is the first step toward being prepared.

Learn more about how to prepare for specific types of emergencies:

Every household should have an emergency plan. A plan will help you and everyone in your home know exactly what to do if an emergency happens. It only takes about 20 minutes to put together, but it can make a big difference when it matters most.

Get started:

Be ready to take care of yourself and your household for at least 72 hours. Your emergency kit should include essentials to help you manage without power, tap water, or access to stores.

You can build your own kit using the checklists below, or you can purchase a ready-made emergency kit or car kit online or in stores across Canada.

Helpful resources:

Don't forget to add:

  • Additional emergency supplies specific to your family's needs
  • A copy of your emergency plan
  • Photocopies of important personal documents
  • A household emergency contact list

In an emergency, knowing the right number to call can save time and make a big difference. Depending on the situation, 9-1-1 may not always be the first call you need to make.

Key emergency contacts:

  • Fire, Police Ambulance (life-threatening emergencies): 9-1-1
  • Town Hall: 613-267-3311 (or 613-267-1072 After-Hours)
  • OPP: 1-888-310-1122
  • Perth Fire Services: 613-267-5574
  • Health Unit: 1-888-777-0730
  • Poison Control: 1-800-268-9017
  • Ontario Hydro: 1-800-434-1235
  • Enbridge Gas: 1-866-763-5427
  • Lanark County Mental Health Crisis Line: 1-866-531-2600
  • Telehealth Ontario (medical advice): 8-1-1

For a full list, print our Emergency Contact List and keep it somewhere easy to find at home.

Everyone's needs should be considered during an emergency. Planning ahead helps ensure the safety of children, seniors, people with disabilities, and pets.

Learn how to create a plan that supports everyone in your household and review the helpful guides below:

Looking for fun and educational activities to keep kids engaged in emergency planning? We've curated a selection of interactive resources that blend learning with play—perfect for home, school, or on-the-go.

  • Emergency Preparedness for Children - This resource offers guidance on how to talk to children about emergencies, including teaching them when and how to call 9-1-1, and helping them understand various emergency scenarios.
  • Are You Ready for an Emergency Activity Book - A fun activity book that encourages kids to learn about the items needed in a 72-hour emergency kit, how to prepare for an emergency, and more.
  • “Can You Build a Kit?” Game - An interactive game that tests children's knowledge on emergency preparedness kits, helping them understand what items are essential during emergencies.
  • Safety with Radar Activity Books - These activity books include word searches, crosswords, and matching games focused on safety messages for both indoor and outdoor environments.

The South East Health Unit provides important public health resources to help you stay safe and informed during emergencies. Learn more about their emergency response planning, infectious disease guidance, and precautions for safe drinking water.