In recognition of Emergency Preparedness Week, May 3–9, the Provincial Government is encouraging residents to be prepared to help keep our homes and communities safe.
Supporting our province’s emergency services resources is a top priority for this government. Through Budget 2026, we are investing over $7 million in new funding for equipment, supplies, staffing, volunteer firefighter training, and emergency preparedness resources.
This includes $412,805 to double staff resources for the Emergency Services Division. The expanded team will focus on enhancing emergency planning, training, and public safety initiatives. This includes strengthening collaboration with all municipalities, including cities, towns, local service districts and communities, throughout the province.
Under the Emergency Services Act, municipalities within the province are required to have an approved emergency management plan in place. Budget 2026 investments support a more coordinated and resilient emergency response framework for communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
During emergencies, critical services can become overwhelmed and may not operate at full capacity. Residents should always have an emergency preparedness kit on hand so they can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Information on organizing emergency kits and plans is available in the backgrounder below and on the Be Prepared website.
If a potential life-threatening emergency event is deemed imminent, the Provincial Government will activate its emergency information webpage at www.gov.nl.ca. This mobile-friendly webpage is a single source of information ahead of, during, and after an emergency.
Information on emergency preparedness for persons with disabilities can be found on the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities NL website and on the federal website for an Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Disabilities.
Emergency Preparedness Week raises awareness and educates residents on how they can prepare for emergency situations. It is recognized annually by Public Safety Canada, as well as the provinces and territories.
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“We continue to work with municipalities to ensure they have proper emergency plans and resources in place in the event of emergencies. The best way to stay safe in an emergency is to be prepared for it. I encourage all residents and municipalities throughout the province to prepare their plans and do what they can to help keep our residents, homes and communities safe.”
Honourable Pleaman Forsey
Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands
Minister Responsible for Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Management
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BACKGROUNDER
Tips for Preparing an Emergency Kit
Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours with an emergency kit:
- Two litres of drinking water per person/per day
- Non-perishable canned and dried foods
- Manual can opener and disposable plates/utensils
- Prescriptions, medications and medical equipment
- Personal hygiene items
- Extra water for washing (if possible)
- First aid kit
- Battery-operated radio and flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Phone charger and battery bank
- Cash
- Car and house keys
- Change of clothing and footwear per person
- Copy of personal documents (identification, insurance, bank account, etc.)
- Home emergency plan with contact numbers
- Blanket or sleeping bag per person.
For those with babies, toddlers and children, also consider:
- Formula
- Diapers
- Bottles
- Wipes
- Games, books and crafts
For those with pets, also consider:
- Pet food
- Water
- Bowls
- Leash
- Kennel
Emergency preparedness kits should be easily accessible, stored in a dry place, and in an easy-to-carry container or backpack. Plan to fuel vehicles and have cash on hand.