Emergencies and Being Prepared
Emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time. Things like extreme weather events, forest fires, floods, and outbreaks of viruses and diseases can harm health. Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU) works to protect the public’s health during and after emergencies.
What we do
NWHU identifies environmental hazards that can impact health, raises awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness, provides information about how to be prepared, and works with community partners to plan for and respond to public health emergencies.
During an emergency, NWHU also plays a role in reducing the impact on the public’s health by inspecting facilities such as restaurants and evacuation centres that act as hosts to potential evacuees.
During an emergency, it may take up to 72 hours for emergency workers to reach you. By doing simple things, you can help take care of yourself and your family until help arrives.
Protect yourself by being prepared:
- Know the Risks – Learn what types of emergencies may happen in your community – Emergency Management Ontario.
- Make a Plan – Create an Emergency Plan that will allow you to respond quickly to emergency situations.
- Make an Emergency Preparedness Kit – Prepare a kit with emergency supplies.
- Stay Informed – Stay tuned in to local news and radio channels for up-to-date information. Other important sources may be:
Flooding is a common natural hazard that can be dangerous to your health. In addition to the tips for being prepared, you can further protect yourself by knowing what to do:
Forest fires are common in our region and can pose risks to people’s health. You can protect yourself by learning more about the following topics:
We respond to public health emergencies including animal bites, foodborne illnesses, disease outbreaks, and natural disasters. To report one of these, call your local office.
If after hours, call 807-468-7109 or (toll-free) 1-866-475-6505.