Emergency Preparedness Week: May 3 - 9, 2026
Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week) is an annual, nationwide event coordinated by Public Safety Canada (PSC) in partnership with the provinces, territories and other partners to encourage Canadians to become better prepared for emergencies. EP Week always occurs the first week of May.
Emergency preparedness is an ongoing journey that is built over time and unique for everyone. EP Week is an opportunity to spotlight emergency preparedness nation-wide and use your knowledge as community leaders to break preparedness down in a way that makes sense for all Albertans:
- Get and stay informed.
- Know the risks.
- Make a plan.
- Gather supplies and build a kit.
- Make community connections.
Risks vary by region, but understanding them is key to preparedness. Whether you are creating materials, hosting events or engaging online, encourage individuals to act in preventing, mitigating and preparing for local risks.
Alberta’s new theme for 2026: In It Together
Before, during and after an emergency—we are In It Together.
According to the Preparedness Survey of Albertans, actions that require social connection and coordination—such as knowing neighbours, identifying who may need help, or having a community support system—are among the least common preparedness behaviours. Only 12% of Albertans report having a community support system, which leaves individuals, households and communities more vulnerable when emergencies occur. Low preparedness increases reliance on emergency services, slows recovery and exacerbates stress, financial hardship and inequities during disruptions. Research shows that communities who have established strong social connections before an emergency often experience better outcomes following the emergency, including reduced impacts and recovery time.
Community takes many forms—neighbours, coworkers, faith groups, sports teams, or people connected by culture or shared interests. When these groups come together, they can form a community support system where they share their knowledge, skills and abilities to prevent, mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from everyday disruptions to emergencies and even disasters.
If affected, your community members will be the first to lend a hand, as well as the last, as you rebuild your community together.