Emergency Preparedness Week, May 4–10

This week marks Emergency Preparedness Week, a national campaign that encourages Canadians to take proactive steps in getting ready for emergencies and making preparedness part of their everyday life. 

The 2025 theme – “Be Prepared. Know Your Risks!” – urges residents to learn about the hazards most likely to affect their area and take simple actions to reduce the impact of potential emergencies. 

Emergencies can happen anytime and often without warning. From wildfires and extreme weather to extended power outages and industrial incidents, preparedness helps protect yourself, your family and the broader community. 

“Everyone has a role to play in emergency preparedness,” says Jamie Anderson, Emergency Planning Administrator with the City of Lethbridge. “By understanding our local risks and taking action now, residents can significantly reduce the impact of emergencies when they happen.”

Three key actions every household can take to be better prepared include:

1. Build a 72-hour Emergency Kit with essential items such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, first aid supplies, medications and pet care items.
   
   
2. Make a plan – know where to go, who to contact and how to communicate in an emergency. Include plans for children, seniors, pets and anyone in your care.
   
   
3. Stay informed by signing up for Alberta Emergency Alerts and following trusted sources for emergency updates. 

If you already have an emergency kit, take time this week to check expiration dates, restock supplies and update your family’s emergency plan. You can also download Your Emergency Preparedness Guide for more tips and checklists. 

Throughout Emergency Preparedness Week, City staff will be available at various locations to engage with residents about preparedness and answer questions. Residents who attend any of these events will have the opportunity to enter a raffle draw to win a 72-hour Emergency Kit. 

The outreach events will also encourage residents to sign up for Alberta Emergency Alerts and to consider joining the City of Lethbridge’s Emergency Social Services (ESS) volunteer team.

Community Outreach Schedule

• Tuesday, May 6 at Downtown Lethbridge Public Library, 11 a.m. to noon as part of the Parent Connect Program.
• Wednesday, May 7 at Lethbridge Seniors Citizens Organization (LSCO), 9 a.m. to noon.
• Friday, May 9 at Nordbridge Seniors Centre, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. 

Visit Lethbridge.ca/BePrepared for local resources, emergency planning tools and preparedness tips. 

By increasing awareness and preparedness, our community will be better equipped to respond effectively to emergencies, contributing to a safer and more resilient community.

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.