WHEREAS the City of Brantford does recognize the importance of Emergency Management in Ontario and the goal of Emergency Preparedness Week’s “Are You Ready!” campaign to raise community awareness of emergency preparedness by educating residents on the benefits of making an emergency plan and building a 72-hour emergency preparedness kit; and

WHEREAS during Emergency Preparedness Week, Ontario residents will learn about risks in their communities and how they can protect themselves. Knowing the potential hazards and risks they face, planning ahead and being prepared are the best steps to ensure that they and their family will survive an emergency or disaster; and

WHEREAS Emergency Preparedness Week encourages residents to reach out to family, neighbours and friends who may be vulnerable or may require assistance during an emergency to ensure they are prepared by having an emergency plan and a 72 hour emergency kit; and

WHEREAS although focused on personal preparedness, Emergency Preparedness Week also carries messages for business owners, municipal officials and utility operators. Ensuring business continuity and updating emergency plans are all just as crucial in assuring community preparedness; and

WHEREAS all levels of government have an important role to play in emergency preparedness and response, but ultimately, emergency preparedness is the responsibility of each and every one of us; and

WHEREAS climate change is increasing the frequency and impact of natural disasters to every municipality, making it more important than ever to ensure that we as a community are prepared for any disaster;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of The Corporation of the City of Brantford hereby PROCLAIMS the week of May 5 – 11, 2019, as “Emergency Preparedness Week” in the City of Brantford and encourages all citizens to begin today and learn how to prepare now for a safer tomorrow.