Local municipalities are often the first to respond to emergencies. They must have plans and resources in place to respond to emergency situations. The Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership’s (SREMP) Emergency Management Plan includes an assessment of the hazards each municipality and its residents could face and the steps it will take to address these hazards.
General steps to follow during an emergency:
- If you’ve been directly impacted, make sure you are safe before assisting others. Check yourself and those around you for injuries; administer first aid, if needed, and call 9-1-1 there are life-threatening injuries.
- Activate and follow your emergency plan.
- Get your 72-hour emergency kit and keep it nearby.
- Monitor alerts from Alberta Emergency Alert.
- Listen to a local radio or television station for information from local authorities.
- Access your local authority’s website and/or social media channels for information.
- Listen to instructions from authorities; you may be asked to evacuate or stay where you are.
- Limit non-emergency phone calls to keep phone networks free for those who require emergency services. This also helps save battery power if you are using a cell phone.
- If you must evacuate, lock up your home and register at the reception centre.
Roles in an Emergency
When it comes to emergency preparedness and emergency management, we all have a role to play.
Individuals and families
Individuals and families should be prepared to take care of themselves for a minimum of 72 hours during an emergency and should also understand the basic principles of first aid and safety.
Municipalities
Local governments are responsible for making sure their communities are prepared for emergencies. The Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership (SREMP) is a partnership between Sturgeon County, Morinville, Gibbons, Redwater, Bon Accord and Legal. These municipalities work together to coordinate emergency preparedness, response and recovery from disasters. A regional approach means we have more resources and expertise to keep you safe when faced with a significant emergency in our area.
The Government of Alberta
In Alberta, the Alberta Emergency Management Agency is the coordinating agency for emergency management activities and initiatives. It monitors the province for potential emergencies and disasters on a 24/7 basis.
The Government of Canada
Federal departments and agencies support provincial and/or territorial emergency management organizations. They also manage emergencies that involve areas of federal jurisdiction, such as nuclear safety, national defence and border security.
Non-governmental organizations
Non-government organizations, such as the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance and The Salvation Army, play an important role in emergency management, including disaster prevention/mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.