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Home   Newsroom 2006 News releases 2006-05-08: Minister Day launches Emergency Preparedness Week
OTTAWA, May 8, 2006 -- On the occasion of the 11th annual Emergency Preparedness Week, the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety, today tabled a bill titled Emergency Management Act. This bill will strengthen Canada’s readiness to respond to all types of major emergencies in a spirit of collaboration with its partners. "Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility and everyone has an important role to play," said Minister Day. "Experience has taught us that leadership, coordination and collaboration across jurisdictions are essential to the Government of Canada’s readiness for emergencies and more importantly -- to saving lives. These principles are the foundation of the proposed Emergency Management Act." Once passed, the new Act will replace the current Emergency Preparedness Act and reflect a more comprehensive approach to emergency management in Canada. It is a key element in the Government of Canada’s efforts to confront new threats and protect Canadians by ensuring that responses to major emergencies are rapid, effective and coordinated. The tabling of this bill coincides with the launching of Emergency Preparedness Week. During this week, the government is initiating a public education campaign titled "72 hours…Is your family prepared?". A new emergency preparedness guide has been designed to help Canadians be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in the event of an emergency, while rescue workers help those in desperate need. The guide emphasizes three main steps: know the risks in your area; make and practice your emergency plan; and make or purchase an emergency kit. The content of the emergency preparedness guide , including a common list of emergency kit components, has been developed in consultation with partners including the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance and the Salvation Army. St. John Ambulance/Salvation Army kits can be purchased from retailers across the country; Canadian Red Cross kits are available online at www.redcross.ca. More information on emergency preparedness can be found at www.epweek.ca or by calling 1 800 O-Canada (1 800 622-6232) TTY: 1 800 926-9105. See also:
For further information: Media Relations
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada
(613) 991-0657 Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Stockwell Day
Minister of Public Safety
(613) 991-2863
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