Emergency response exercise builds resiliency

This year’s exercise – known as Emergency Management Exercise 2020 or EMX 20 – is a realistic simulation of multiple tornadoes affecting the Edmonton, Red Deer and Calgary areas. When one or more devastating tornadoes occur, a ‘whole of society’ response is needed. All levels of government, municipalities, emergency management professionals, Indigenous groups, industry and non-government organizations are involved.

“As leaders in emergency management, we regularly practise and prepare for emergencies and disasters. EMX 20 is an opportunity for us to bring government staff and emergency management partners together over a three-day period to strengthen our emergency response efforts. During real disasters and emergencies, these dedicated individuals are there 24-7 to help keep us safe and up-to-date with the latest information.”

During EMX 20, emergency management professionals have the opportunity to simulate responses to various challenges that arise during and after a major emergency. They will practise working together, confirm their organizations’ roles and responsibilities, and test their response procedures. Exercise participants will be at the Provincial Operations Centre Feb. 26-28.

“EPCOR is eager to participate in this important exercise that will help us be better prepared to deal with a real water emergency if we are ever faced with one. Emergency preparedness is an important part in public health protection and delivery of safe drinking water.”

Disasters in Alberta have increased over the years. Emergency management exercises are vital to ensuring the Government of Alberta and its community partners respond effectively when emergencies and disasters occur. Albertans are encouraged to practise their own emergency preparation, as disasters can occur with little to no warning. Here are a few tips on how to be prepared:

• sign up to receive Alberta emergency alerts
• build and maintain emergency kits
• have an emergency plan in place and practise that plan with your family
• review your insurance coverage with your provider to ensure that you have sufficient coverage to protect your family and property

Quick facts:

• Emergency management exercises have been held annually in Alberta since 2001.
• The Provincial Operations Centre is part of Alberta’s emergency management system and mitigates, prepares for, responds to, and helps recovery during emergencies and disasters. The centre is staffed 24-7.
• Alberta’s emergency management system is designed to protect life, property, and the environment by providing a unified, coordinated and resilient response to emergencies.