How public health prepares for emergencies
Preparing for potential emergencies before they happen ensures that our community, local businesses and service partners can act quickly in the event of an emergency in our region.
Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) works collaboratively with local emergency response agencies, hospitals, municipalities and provincial counterparts to develop plans, procedures, contact lists and training exercises that prepare us all for what to do in an emergency.
We also evaluate local needs during emergencies based on our social determinants of health work and regional demographics. This ensures we can support our region's most vulnerable individuals during an emergency.
How you can prepare for emergencies
Planning ahead is the most important step to prepare for an emergency. It is important to practice your emergency plan with everyone who lives in your home. Use the Government of Canada Family Emergency Plan guide to prepare a plan of your own.
Types of emergencies
Public health monitors and prepares for potential emergencies that may impact our community's health and well-being. Emergencies of public health significance include:
- infectious diseases and epidemics/pandemics
- natural disasters
- environmental hazards
- extreme weather events and climate change
- chemical disasters
- radiation hazards
- terrorism
Emergency information and guidance
SWPH works closely with Environment Canada, Public Health Ontario, Emergency Management Ontario, the province, and local municipalities to evaluate local emerging risks. When there is a health threat to our region, SWPH issues information, alerts and advisories to the public, municipal partners, and community service providers to keep the community informed.
Follow our social media channels for guidance in the event of a local emergency or health hazard.