Being prepared is more than gathering supplies for emergency kits and grab-and-go bags. It is about working together to better respond to and recover from emergencies as a community.
Emergency Preparedness Week is the perfect time to reflect on not only how prepared we are as individuals, but how we can support those around us.
Whether it’s checking on a neighbour during a power outage, or organizing a community gathering, when we look out for one another, we can make a big difference.
Knowing your neighbours helps you share resources, shelter in place together and receive emotional support during an emergency, especially since emergency responders may take time to arrive.
This year’s Emergency Preparedness Week theme, “in it together,” highlights why working as a community matters.
What is Emergency Preparedness Week?
Emergency Preparedness Week occurs every year during the first full week of May to raise awareness about the importance of preparedness across the country.
This year, Emergency Preparedness Week runs from May 4 to 10.
In it together
There are many ways to get involved.
You could join or start a neighbourhood preparedness group, organize a meet-and-greet in your building or on your street, or set up a shared emergency contact list.
Even simple actions, like exchanging contact information with neighbours, offering help to someone with mobility challenges, or creating a group chat for emergency check-ins can go a long way.
To bring this to life, we asked Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) employees from across the province “What actions have you taken in the spirit of being a good neighbour?”
Here’s what they shared:
Krista Ediger, Partnership Coordinator — New Westminster
I currently live in an apartment, so I’ve been getting to know my neighbours in case of an emergency. When we had to evacuate during a fire alarm, knowing who lived where helped first responders figure out who was still inside the building.
Loralie Dewar, Communications Officer — Smithers
Last spring in Quick, B.C., neighbours came together when a nearby structure fire broke out. Several people arrived with equipment, water, and support, ultimately preventing a wildfire and showing just how powerful local connections can be in an emergency. Since then, neighbours have stayed connected through a group chat, checking in during potential threats and offering help, from housing evacuated pets to sharing updates about nearby fires.
Peggy Gilliard, Emergency Management Technician — Terrace
Before joining EMCR, I worked with a volunteer fire department. During the Telegraph Creek wildfires, I was deployed with the first truck out to provide water support. We arrived early, before the fire camp was set up, and thanks to our connections with the Dease Lake Fire Department, we were able to camp in their training room. Now, in my new role, I continue to support their communities and will always remember their kindness.
Rachel Schoeler, Public Education Officer — North Vancouver
My partner and I recently moved to a new neighbourhood and started by introducing ourselves to our neighbours and exchanging phone numbers. Not long after, while we were away during a snowstorm, they shoveled our driveway, proving how helpful those early connections can be. Now that we’ve settled in, I’m planning a preparedness night to help neighbours connect and plan together.
Vicki Swan, Public Education Officer — Nanoose Bay
As a neighbourhood, we aim to socialize at least twice a year and enjoy spontaneous meetups during walks. This summer/fall, I plan to host an emergency preparedness potluck, where each household will make a dish using items from their emergency kit, with a prize for the best one. Over the past year, we’ve experienced several severe weather-related and medical emergencies. During these times, our neighbours helped us with food, dog walking, grocery runs, rides, light housework and finding medical equipment.
Can you think of a way that connecting with your neighbours and community has helped you? Let us know by sharing your experiences on our social media channels.
Learn more
During Emergency Preparedness Week, we will be hosting free webinars:
- Inclusive preparedness | Mon May 5 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
- Cultural safety and preparedness | Tue May 6 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
- Animal preparedness | Wed May 7 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
- Insurance: Why it matters | Thu May 8 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
- Community preparedness | Fri May 9 | 5:30 PM (PDT)
Find out more and register today via Zoom. All attendees will be entered to win a four-person home emergency kit. Check out the Neighbourhood Preparedness Guide for more tips on how to connect with your neighbours.