The community response to the August 2003 power outage was carefully managed by a partnership of local governments, the Waterloo Regional Police Service, the Fire Services and EMS . The Service assisted the community with enhanced traffic management, additional neighborhood patrols and supported EMS personnel responding to health concerns.

Community safety is enhanced by the Service's commitment to manage emergencies and disasters by closely working with the fire services, Emergency Medical Services, local governments and other community partners.

The Service in partnership with the Region of Waterloo and each of the area municipalities plans for emergencies and disasters. This ongoing process prepares the community by identifying threats and developing effective responses. The Service participates in training exercises that bring together a team of key representatives from government, first response agencies and the community, and are designed to test the emergency plans and maintain a high level of readiness.

In the event of an incident the Service will establish a secure zone and evacuate the area, assist with search and rescue, provide assistance to displaced persons and conduct an investigation into the circumstances.

Emergency planning starts with the individual. Members of the community are encouraged to learn about emergency planning and ensure that they are prepared for an emergency. Awareness and understanding are the best tools to make sure that you, and your family, are prepared.

Emergency Management Ontario provides an excellent overview of emergency preparation with their Emergency Survival Kit .

Please visit Waterloo Region Emergency Management for more information on emergency planning.  The links and information the region has posted will help you become better prepared.

If you have any questions about preparing your family or your business for an emergency, please email the  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   or call 519-653-7700 Ext. 8720.

Also, please read When to Call 911