Guide helps Canadians prepare in event of a sudden earthquake
OTTAWA, January 25, 2011 – The Honourable Vic Toews, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, today released the Government of Canada’s updated Earthquake Guide, a document which helps Canadian families prepare for – and respond to – a sudden earthquake.
“We all have a role to play in keeping our families and communities safe, and that includes ensuring we take as many precautions as possible to prepare for emergency situations such as earthquakes or natural disasters,” said Minister Toews. “With today’s release of the Government of Canada’s updated Earthquake Guide, our Government is continuing our action to encourage and inform Canadian families about proactive emergency preparedness.”
The release of this updated Earthquake Guide comes as British Columbians prepare for a province-wide earthquake drill on the 311th anniversary of the largest quake in Canadian history. The ‘Great British Columbia ShakeOut’ on January 26, 2011, will be an excellent opportunity for British Columbians to learn more about the earthquake hazard in their province, and encourage proactive thinking about emergency preparedness.
“The updated Earthquake Guide provides clear, important advice for individuals and families in the event of an earthquake. This includes being prepared to cope on our own for at least the first 72 hours so emergency teams can focus on those in the most urgent need. Every one of us should be aware of the risks, make a plan and obtain an emergency kit,” concluded Minister Toews.
Other government partners that collaborated in this important publication include Natural Resources Canada, as well as Public Safety Canada’s partners in emergency management, the Canadian Red Cross and St. John Ambulance.
For quick and easy tips on how to prepare for emergencies and other safety-related information, visit: www.getprepared.gc.ca and follow @Get_Prepared on Twitter.
For more information on emergency management in Canada, please visit Public Safety Canada’s website www.publicsafety.gc.ca.
Information:
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
