Emergency Preparedness Week

When emergencies force people from their homes, a coordinated and compassionate response can make all the difference.

As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, the City of Lethbridge is highlighting the ongoing work of its Emergency Social Services (ESS) team and encouraging residents to learn how they can get involved. This year’s theme, “In It Together,” reflects the important role volunteers, neighbours and community partners play in helping people during emergencies.

The City’s ESS program focuses on year-round training and teamwork to help volunteers prepare for real emergencies. Volunteers take part in monthly Lunch & Learn sessions, hands-on training and full-scale exercises that build confidence and strengthen response skills.

Recent training activities included a full-scale ESS exercise held at the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) with support from the Alberta Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) and Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services. The exercise simulated the arrival of evacuees following a large wildfire. The training gave volunteers the opportunity to practice setting up and operating an ESS Registration Centre.

During emergencies, ESS volunteers help people displaced from their homes access short-term supports such as lodging, food, clothing, emotional support and connections to other community resources.

“We’re not just building a volunteer list – we’re building a team,” says Jamie Anderson, Emergency Planning Administrator with the City of Lethbridge. “Preparedness starts before an emergency happens. Training together helps volunteers build relationships, strengthen their skills and understand how to support people during difficult situations.”

Training exercises also gave volunteers the opportunity to practice communication and problem-solving in realistic scenarios. This builds stronger connections between partner agencies and organizations.

“Emergency preparedness is strongest when people work together,” says Anderson. “Our volunteers play an important role in helping the community during challenging times.”

Community members interested in joining the ESS team are invited to attend an upcoming volunteer information session and intake:

Date: Friday, May 8
Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: City Hall – Culver Room

The session is open to anyone interested in learning about ESS, emergency preparedness and volunteer training opportunities. No prior experience is required.

Residents interested in volunteering or learning more about Emergency Preparedness Week can visit Lethbridge.ca/ESS and GetInvolvedLethbridge.ca/emergency-preparedness-week.

Emergency Preparedness Week runs from May 3 to 9, and the City of Lethbridge is encouraging residents to take simple steps to be ready for emergencies.

This year’s campaign combines the national message, “Be Prepared. Know your Risks,” with Alberta’s theme, “In It Together.” The focus is clear: prepared households and connected neighbours create a stronger, more resilient community.

Emergencies can happen quickly and without warning. Wildfires, power outages, flooding and extreme weather can disrupt daily life. Taking simple steps now helps reduce risk and allows residents to respond with confidence.

“Preparedness starts at home, but it doesn’t end there,” says Jamie Anderson, Emergency Planning Administrator with the City of Lethbridge. “When neighbours know each other and look out for one another, the whole community is stronger.”

Residents are encouraged to take one simple step this week:

• Be ready for 72 hours – build or update a basic emergency kit with water, food, medications and essential supplies.
• Know your risks – understand local hazards and how they could affect your household.
• Stay informed – download the Alberta Emergency Alert app to receive trusted updates during an emergency.
• Connect with neighbours – check in, share contact information and identify who may need support.

If you already have an emergency kit, take time this week to check expiration dates, restock supplies and update your family’s emergency plan. You can also download your Emergency Action Plan for more tips and checklists.

Throughout the week, City staff will be in the community to answer questions and support residents in getting prepared. Attendees can enter a draw to win a 72-hour emergency kit.

Community Outreach Schedule

• May 5 and 6 at Lethbridge Public Library (Parent Connect Program), 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• May 7 at Lethbridge Seniors Citizens Organization (LSCO), 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• May 7 at Nord-Bridge Seniors Centre, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
• May 8 at City Hall (Culver Room), 9 a.m. – 12 noon, (Emergency Social Services (ESS) volunteer information session)

Residents interested in supporting their community are invited to attend an ESS volunteer information session on Friday, May 8, at City Hall. This come-and-go session is an opportunity to learn more about supporting residents during emergencies. New volunteers can begin their journey with intake training on Saturday, May 23.

Learn more at: Lethbridge.ca/BePrepared

Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility. When individuals take action and communities stay connected, response is faster and recovery is stronger.