Your 72-hour head start: St. Catharines Encourages Emergency Preparedness

As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, May 5 to 11, the City of St. Catharines is encouraging residents to take simple, proactive steps to ensure they are ready for emergencies that can happen at any time.

This year’s national theme - Be Prepared. Know Your Risks - aligns with the City’s focus on three key actions: knowing the hazards, making a plan, and preparing an emergency kit.

“Basement flooding, power outages, and high winds are real risks in our community,” said Deputy Fire Chief Andrea DeJong. “Taking time now to prepare can save you time, stress and even lives in an emergency. Every family should know what to do, where to go, and have the tools they need to stay safe for at least 72 hours.”

Make a Plan

An emergency plan ensures everyone in your household knows what to do in various situations, such as where to meet if separated, how to contact each other, and who to check on. Find out how to make a plan in our Emergency Preparedness Guide: stcatharines.ca/EmergencyGuide.

Prepare a Kit

A 72-hour emergency kit should include food and water, flashlights and batteries, medication, a portable phone charger, important documents and supplies for any pets. Kits should be stored in an easily accessible location and checked regularly. A full checklist is available at stcatharines.ca/72HourKit.

Know the Hazards

In St. Catharines, residents should be especially mindful of localized flooding, extreme weather and power outages. The City provides resources on how to reduce flood risks, including sump pump tips, backwater valve information and seasonal maintenance guidance. Learn more about hazards and find out how to respond to them at stcatharines.ca/Hazards.

Residents are encouraged to follow the City’s social media channels throughout Emergency Preparedness Week for daily tips and resources.

To learn more about how to prepare for emergencies in St. Catharines, visit: stcatharines.ca/EmergencyPreparedness.