EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Pigeon Lake’s Regional Emergency Management Agency (REMA) is responsible for the planning, coordinating and supporting emergency agencies and resources during major emergencies and disasters. REMA is established under our emergency bylaw.
REMA works with all departments, utility companies, other municipalities and nonprofit groups to prepare, respond and recover more quickly when a disaster occurs. The REMA manages the Region’s Emergency Management Plan (REMP) for all 10 Summer Villages on Pigeon Lake and identifies the Region’s resources and organization in the event of an emergency or disaster. The REMP is the master document developed by various Agencies such as Police, Fire, Municipal Works, and Emergency Social Services.
THE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
The Emergency Management Committee is made up of councilors from each municipality and has the responsibility of designating a Director of Emergency Management and mandating responsibilities.
HOW YOU CAN BE PREPARED FOR AN EMERGENCY
Know the risks that can happen in your area. In Alberta, a tornado can strike quickly, wildfires can threaten communities and heavy rains can cause flash flooding. When an emergency occurs, family members may not be together and could be at school, home or work. It’s important to sit down with your family and make your own emergency plan so that each family member knows what to do if an emergency occurs.
How to Prepare
I D E N T I F Y THE RISKS:
Prepare a list of the most common risks in your region and learn about the possible consequences of those risks. Then, walk around your house and identify dangers like heavy pictures hung loosely, toxic products, and so on. Take any necessary corrective steps to secure your possessions and your home..
P R E P A R E YOUR FAMILY EMERGENCY PLAN:
Choose an out-of-area contact, someone each member of the family can call or e-mail in case of an emergency. This person can help family members stay in touch and get back together if they are separated. Be sure to pick someone who is far enough away so as not to be affected by the same situation. Decide on temporary accommodation – such as a friend’s place or hotel – where you can stay for a few days in case you are evacuated. This may also be where you will meet if you are separated during a disaster. When choosing your shelter, remember that bridges may be out and roads may be blocked. (Don’t forget to plan for your pets: they are not always welcome in emergency shelters or hotels.)
P R A C T I C E YOUR PLAN:
At least once a year your plan should be practiced. Practice often helps people feel less disoriented and better organized in case of a disaster – even in the middle of the night or the middle of winter.