Office of the Fire Commissioner

9 Steps for Emergency Plan Development

Emergencies can occur in any community of any size.  Many smaller communities think that the risk of an emergency actually occurring is so remote that planning is not necessary.  They think…it won’t happen here.   

A more realistic view is that smaller communities are more at risk for an emergency.  They have fewer resources to draw on and their own emergency services are likely to have less experience in dealing with unexpected events.   

The Emergency Planning Act, 1989, states that every municipality shall establish a local Emergency Measures Organization, EMO.  Appoint an emergency coordinator and establish an EMO Committee.   

The key reason for an Emergency Management Program is to support public safety and create disaster resilient communities. A realistic, risk based program that is properly resourced and exercised will save money and lives.  Emergency Management draws on local knowledge and resources that are already in your community.  It doesn’t have to be costly.  The costs of not having a solid emergency management program can be immense when disaster does strike.  This web site accompanied by the 9 steps for emergency plan development manual will assist you in establishing a local EMO Committee and developing a basic emergency plan.
 

Ministry of Corrections, Public Safety and Policing 2008