York launches enhanced emergency management Web site

York Region has launched an enhanced emergency management Web site which will provide residents and businesses with a comprehensive emergency information resource.

"The Regional Municipality of York is committed to providing residents and businesses with the tools they need to ensure they can respond appropriately to emergency situations," said Regional Chairman Bill Fisch. "Household education and awareness are the cornerstones of emergency preparedness and this Web site provides an excellent online resource for our citizens."

The site is accessible from www.york.ca and by clicking on the "Emergency Management and Contacts" link.

The site features York Region's Emergency Preparedness Guide as well as Web links and contact information for York Regional Police, York Region Emergency Medical Services (EMS), York Region Public Health, local municipal fire services and area hospitals.

The Region reminds all residents and businesses the importance of preparing for an emergency or disaster situation for at least the first 72 hours by making an emergency plan and an emergency kit.

Large-scale emergencies and disasters, such as hazardous chemical spills or releases, power outages, infectious disease outbreaks, severe weather or flooding, can occur without warning, leaving little or no time for people to plan what to do next. It can confine them to their homes or workplaces, or force them to evacuate their neighbourhoods.

A little preparedness can go a long way.