Stay Informed During Emergencies

Peterborough, ON -The City of Peterborough encourages residents to take simple but important steps to stay informed and be ready for an emergency, with Emergency Preparedness Week running from May 4 to May 10.

“We can’t always predict when an emergency will strike, but we can take steps to be ready. The recent ice storm showed just how quickly severe weather can disrupt our lives. By having a plan, staying informed, and keeping emergency supplies on hand, we can help protect ourselves, our families, and our community. Preparedness saves lives, and it starts with each of us,” Mayor Jeff Leal said.

This year’s theme is “Be prepared. Know your risks.”

Stay informed with Alertable

Residents can now access a new tool to help stay informed during emergencies and critical events.

Alertable is a community notification system that provides emergency alerts and essential updates directly through text messages, SMS notifications, telephone messages and emails. It is designed to ensure clear and timely updates to users and ensure effective communication to enhance public safety.

“Alertable is a vital tool in keeping our community informed during emergencies. We encourage everyone to register and choose their preferred method of communication - whether it’s a phone call, text message, email, or notifications through the Alertable app. In an emergency, important information will be shared through the method you select, helping the community stay safe and prepared,” says Jodi DeNoble, Director of Emergency and Risk Management.

Alertable receives information directly from the City. The City will continue to issue media releases and post updates on its social media channels and website during emergencies.  

For more information and to register for Alertable visit peterborough.ca/alertable and choose a preferred method of contact to stay informed during emergencies. Alertable is free to download.

Be prepared for an emergency

Simple steps like creating an emergency plan and having an emergency kit on hand can help residents be prepared for an emergency.

An emergency preparedness kit should include:

·       Battery powered or windup flashlight

·       Battery powered or windup radio

·       First Aid Kit

·       Portable external battery charger for cellphones, laptops, etc.

·       Water (Two litres per person per day)

·       Canned or dried food that won’t spoil

·       Manual can opener

·       Extra batteries for your flashlight or radio

·       Cash-if there is an extended power outage many stores may only be able to accept cash as a form of payment

·       Blankets

·       Candles and matches

·       A list of emergency numbers and important contacts

For more information on creating an emergency plan visit getprepared.gc.ca.