Empowering communities: Why emergency preparedness is everyone’s responsibility

In emergencies, waiting for government assistance alone isn’t enough. Fires, floods, and other crises can hit hard and fast, and relying solely on public sector support could leave communities, especially small or rural ones, vulnerable. But what if these communities could tap into the resources around them –– reaching out to local businesses, non-profits, and other organizations to form a robust network for emergency response and recovery?

An all-of-society approach to emergency management is reshaping how communities respond to disasters. This shift in perspective highlights the power of local resources, putting communities in the driver’s seat and fostering resilience through local partnerships.

Beyond government: A new mindset for emergency preparedness

It’s easy to assume that federal or provincial agencies have the capacity to manage any crisis effectively. While these agencies play an indispensable role in emergency response, their resources are finite and may be stretched thin during widespread or concurrent crises. This is especially true in remote or rural areas, where response times can be significantly delayed due to geographic and logistical challenges.

For communities located hours away from major urban centres, relying solely on government intervention is not just impractical — it’s a potential risk to safety and resilience. Local institutions, such as credit unions, farmers equipped with heavy machinery, car rental companies, and private recreation service providers, can play a crucial role in filling the gap. These organizations often have the assets, infrastructure, and local knowledge necessary to provide immediate support in a crisis, significantly reducing response times. Their proximity and familiarity with community-specific needs make them invaluable partners in building a more proactive and responsive emergency preparedness strategy.

Private sector and non-profits: Key players in emergencies

Private enterprises and non-profits both play vital roles responding to emergencies, bringing unique resources and capabilities to the table. In a crisis, private businesses –– often with established infrastructure, equipment, and long-term operational capacity, can make an immediate impact. Consider the example of a landslide blocking a critical road, communities might normally wait for government assistance. However, local farmers or construction companies may already have the heavy machinery needed and can act right away to restore access.

Non-profit organizations also contribute in important ways, especially where specialized expertise is needed. During the November 2021 Atmospheric River event in Abbotsford, B.C., the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) stepped in to help care for livestock in the region. Their response showcased how specialized local expertise could complement traditional government support.

This collective action, where communities utilize all available resources can transform how emergencies are handled –– from a waiting game to a proactive, hands-on-approach.    

Building a resilient network for the future

Building a resilient network isn’t as overwhelming as it may seem. By appointing a dedicated emergency coordinator and leveraging local partnerships, communities can take proactive steps towards enhanced emergency preparedness. This individual plays a central role in maintaining partnerships, updating agreements, organizing training, and ensuring clear communication. With the right leadership and a well-structured plan, communities can build and sustain a strong, reliable support network when it’s needed most.  

Here’s a simple, step by step approach to help communities build and sustain a strong, reliable support network when it’s needed most.

Step one: Appoint a dedicated emergency coordinator

Begin by assigning a dedicated individual to oversee emergency preparedness and coordination. This person ensures accountability across all efforts, from identifying partners to organizing training and maintaining agreements.  

Step two: Identify key local partners

Review past disaster events within the community and neighbouring areas to identify private businesses, non-profits, and other organizations that provide support or could contribute during an event. Consider resources like local farmers, equipment rental companies, and non-profit organizations that can play a crucial role in emergencies.

Step three: Establish formal agreements and expectations

Formalize relationships with written agreements to ensure reliability. Outline expectations, service rates, and service scope so everyone understands what support to provide during a crisis.

Step four: Develop clear communication protocols

Create a contact list with clear points of contact for each partner. Establish a communication plan for activating these resources in times of crisis, ensuring a swift response.

Step five: Expand networking with neighbouring communities

Adopt a block watch approach by forming alliances with nearby towns or districts. Cross-community partnerships can provide additional resources and shared knowledge during larger emergencies.

Step six: Implement regular training and drills

Organize joint training sessions and emergency drills with local partners. Regular practices help solidify relationships and ensure all partners are ready to act promptly and effectively. 

Looking forward: Empowering communities to act now

With climate change driving more frequent and severe weather events, emergency management must become a year-round, dedicated focus. There’s a growing understanding that the implementation of this approach requires full-time attention.

Communities should consider appointing dedicated emergency coordinators who can build, maintain, and activate these critical networks.

Public Safety Canada’s recent work with the Pan Canadian Civilian Response Task Force on emergency management signals a shift toward recognizing non-governmental and private sector groups as essential partners. The future of emergency management will likely see an even greater emphasis on local resilience, with communities harnessing resources close to home rather than waiting for distant support.

Your community, your network

A shift in mindset from dependence on government aid to self-reliance with local partnerships can make all the difference when disaster strikes. In building a network of support that includes private sector and non-profit partners, communities gain the tools they need to act swiftly and effectively, giving them control over their own safety and resilience.

For those communities that seek guidance on implementing an all-of-society approach, a strategic advisory partner with expertise in emergency management can be instrumental. Strategic advisors bring the expertise through their network to help communities assess local assets, build reliable partnerships, and create actionable plans, tailored to the unique needs. By working together, we can ensure that communities, no matter their size or location are prepared, resilient, and ready to face whatever comes their way.