Recognizing the major role technology plays in our lives, as well as how it’s used for emergency management, this year’s theme for Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C. is “using technology before, during and after emergencies.”
What is Emergency Preparedness Week?
Emergency Preparedness Week is a nationally recognized week that occurs every year during the first full week of May to raise awareness about the importance of preparedness. It’s a great time to learn about preparedness and how you and your loved ones can stay safe.
This year, Emergency Preparedness Week runs from May 5 to May 11.
Using technology to prepare
From wildfires and floods that threaten homes, businesses, and infrastructure to extreme heat and cold weather events that pose various risks, emergencies can impact us all at any time of year.
Here are some ways you can prepare for emergencies using tech:
Know the hazards in your community
Hazards vary from region to region. Knowing the hazards that are most likely to happen in your community will help guide your preparedness actions. Once you know the potential hazards, explore ClimateReadyBC to learn more.
Tech tip: Use the PreparedBC hazard map to see what emergencies could happen near you!
Make your home emergency plan
A home emergency plan outlines how you and the people you live with plan to respond during an emergency.
Tech tip: Don’t discount the power of pen and paper! Download the fill-in-the-blanks PreparedBC Home Emergency Plan and complete it with the people you live with. Keep copies in your emergency kit and grab-and-go bags!
Build your emergency kit and grab-and-go bags
Whether you need to stay home with your emergency kit or evacuate with your grab-and-go bag, gathering emergency supplies is an important part of preparedness. Check out PreparedBC’s basic supply list to get started.
Tech tip: Don’t forget to include tech essentials like batteries, a radio, flashlight and power bank.
Join the conversation
Let us know your tips for preparing for emergencies using tech using #EPWeek2024 on social media. While you’re at it, follow PreparedBC on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram for more preparedness info.
Register for our webinar
Join our 45-minute webinar on May 9 at 5:30 p.m. (Pacific time) to learn how to prepare for emergencies, as well as some of the ways you can use technology to help.
All participants will be entered to win a 4-person emergency kit! Deadline to register for the webinar on Zoom is May 8 at 11:59 p.m.