Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week) is an annual event that is coordinated by Public Safety Canada, in close collaboration with the provinces and territories and other partners, including The Salvation Army. This emergency preparedness week The Salvation Army wants to encourage all Canadians to be ready for anything. In addition to the current global pandemic, households should prepare for other hazards such as flooding, wildfires, earthquakes and tornadoes.

Follow these three steps to be ready for anything:  

• First, learn more about the potential risks in your area.
• Next, make a plan for you and your household. Include meeting places, contact information and always remember to consider your pets.
• Finally, get or make an emergency kit in order to be self-sufficient for at least 3 full days following an emergency. You can buy a pre-made kit or purchase individual items, many of which can be found at your local Salvation Army thrift store. 

There was no way of knowing at the end of 2019 what the onrushing series of events that 2020 would bring. But amidst the hardships, there was courage, compassion and hope—many people who faced the very worst were reassured that help was on the way.

See how The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services continues to provide numerous disaster relief services across Canada.