Disaster Preparedness

While life in Middlesex County is generally safe, serene, and welcoming, as we all know disaster can strike at any time. On this page, we'd like to share some information that you can use to help ensure your family's comfort and safety.

Are you prepared?

There are three basic steps in preparing a personal emergency plan:

  • Know the risks. Know the region.
    • Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to your region can help you prepare yourself better.
  • Make a plan.
    • Every household needs an emergency plan. It will help you and your family know what to do in case of an emergency.
  • Prepare a kit.
    • In an emergency you will need some basic supplies. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.

The Government of Canada's Get Prepared website is filled with great information and tips on making emergency plans, creating a survival kit, and other preparedness recommendations.

People with Special Needs

Go to the Government of Canada Get Prepared website, under the Your Emergency Plan section, to access the Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Disabilities/Special Needs. This guide provides information on preparing an emergency plan and kit for people with disabilities/special needs and for caregivers.

The impact of disasters on people with disabilities or special needs can be compounded by factors such as reliance on electrical power, elevators, accessible transportation, and accessible communication – all of which can be compromised in emergency situations.

You can also download a PDF copy of the Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Disabilities/Special Needs

Disaster Preparedness Exercises

The County of Middlesex and its constituent municipalities participate in annual emergency exercises, based on the hazards and risks in our area. Municipal staff, elected officials, and volunteers handle the situation using their skills, training, and experience.

Under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, all municipalities in the province of Ontario are required to have emergency management training and participate in an exercise every year. During these emergency exercises, each municipality responds to a simulated emergency situation and convenes its Emergency Control Group to help organize an appropriate response.

It may happen that each municipality will have to declare an emergency, simulate an evacuation of citizens, and open a reception centre to shelter and feed evacuees. First response agencies, like the OPP, Middlesex-London EMS and Fire Services, play an important role in making the simulation as realistic as possible for municipal staff and volunteers.

Community Emergency Response Volunteers (CERV) from the County and the Middlesex-London Health Unit help to open and operate the reception centres, and provide personal support to individuals and families affected by the emergency. Through a signed agreement with the County, The Salvation Army provides vital assistance with emergency food services, emergency clothing services and comfort and emotional support for evacuees, volunteers and staff.