Emergency Preparedness Week is May 3 to 9 – Prepared Together

Whitby, ON - While emergencies are rare, being prepared helps turn uncertainty into confidence. This Emergency Preparedness Week (May 3 to 9, 2026), the Region of Durham is reminding residents that a little planning can make a big difference. We are encouraging residents to take small, manageable steps now, so they are ready when it counts.

Throughout the week, the Region will be sharing practical tips and reminders to help households across Durham build resilience-whether it's updating an emergency kit, backing up important documents, or learning how to stay informed when something goes wrong.

Some of the small steps we encourage you to consider are:

• Build or refresh your emergency kit, including ones for pets and vehicles.
• Make an emergency plan. Talk to your family about your meeting place, including one out of town.
• Learn how Durham's public alerting systems work-siren, landline, cell alert, radio and social media.
• Understand when and how to shelter in place, evacuate, or take potassium iodide (KI) pills.

Residents who live or work near a nuclear generating station can access zoned Nuclear Emergency Preparedness Guides, with clear instructions on what to do in an emergency. These guides are available at durham.ca/NuclearPreparedness.

Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility, and this week serves as a reminder that preparedness starts with you.

Residents can find more resources-including Durham's At The Ready guide, nuclear safety tools, and planning checklists-at durham.ca/Prepared.

Follow the conversation for more tips and information on social media using #EPWeek2026.

Quotes

"Every year, Emergency Preparedness Week reminds us that readiness is a shared responsibility. When residents have the right information and take simple steps to prepare, our entire community is better equipped to handle the unexpected."

- John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

"Emergency preparedness doesn't have to be overwhelming - it starts with small steps. Taking time now to build an emergency kit, to make a plan, and to understand local alerts can make a real difference when an emergency happens. Being prepared helps protect your family, your neighbours, and your own peace of mind."

- Adam Miller, Acting Deputy Director, Durham Emergency Management

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