PROMOTING EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

May 4th – 10th is Emergency Preparedness Week across Canada. This year's theme is "Prepare Now! Learn How!"

"As individuals, each of us plays an important role in planning for an emergency," Corrections and Public Safety Minister Andrew Thomson said. "Whether it's a natural event like a fire, flood or tornado, or human-caused threats, being prepared for any emergency saves lives, prevents injuries and helps protect us from catastrophic losses."

Emergency Preparedness Week is designed to promote awareness, public education and prevention activities. Communities will be participating in activities that can help people recognize the risks inherent in their lives and work places. These activities also help people put together effective emergency plans of their own.

The Minister noted several accomplishments of the department since it was created a little over a year ago, including expanded 911 service to 97 per cent of the province and preparing new legislation to facilitate co-ordinated responses to the new kind of threat posed by terrorism.

To help promote Emergency Preparedness Week, posters and other materials are being distributed to emergency measures co-ordinators throughout Saskatchewan. A new video intended for elected officials will help municipal authorities with local emergency planning.

In addition, a web site is available at www.emergencypreparednessweek.ca outlining the week's activities, links to preparedness materials and other useful information.

More information regarding emergency preparedness in Saskatchewan can also be found on the Corrections and Public Safety web site at http://www.cps.gov.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bill Derby Corrections and Public Safety Regina Phone: (306)787-5883 Email: bderby@cps.gov.sk.ca