Are you Prepared for a Disaster?

A disaster can strike without notice, leaving devastation in its wake. Preparation is key to keeping Ontarians safe and managing the impacts on individuals, families, and communities.

Trevor McLellan, emergency disaster services specialist with the Salvation Army, says floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes do occur in Ontario and residents need to be aware and encourages them to be self-reliant for 72-hours.

“Ensuring there is enough food and water to last three days is important because the aftermath of disasters can last for days or even weeks,” says McLellan. “Having extra clothing on hand, flashlights, batteries and alternatives such as a radio to receive updates are also essential because in some worst-case scenarios, cell service and internet are unavailable.”

Depending on the type of emergency, police, fire and paramedics personnel might not be able to respond quickly to those in need; stores and doctors’ offices might be closed or inaccessible, power might be out and there could be no running water.

Wherever there is a need across the province, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) is there when called upon. In 2023, Ontario EDS personnel assisted nearly 1,000 people, providing more than 12,700 meals to affected residents and first responders, and volunteers gave more than 1,200 hours of their time to support 63 natural disasters, emergencies, and fires.

Salvation Army EDS volunteers are highly trained and prepared to mobilize quickly wherever there is hardship, providing food, water, and snacks, along with emotional and spiritual care for anyone experiencing stress and trauma following an incident.

Volunteering in times of an emergency is a rewarding way to give back while supporting local communities. The Salvation Army utilizes volunteers in every aspect of Emergency Disaster Services. Full training is provided through the National Disaster Training Program (NDTP), a very detailed emergency response training program whereby personnel are trained in every aspect of Salvation Army emergency response.

Available training courses include an introduction to EDS, first aid, emotional and spiritual guidance, canteen operation, food service preparation and delivery. Advanced courses include safety logistics and incident command operations.

To learn more about The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services, please visit salvationarmy.ca/ontario.