The City of Brampton is urging residents to be ready for emergencies as part of Emergency Preparedness Week in Canada, running May 3 to 9.

In a statement, the city said unexpected events such as severe storms, power outages, flooding and extreme temperatures can disrupt daily life with little warning.

“Emergencies can happen without warning and disrupt daily life in moments,” the city said. “Being prepared can make all the difference.”

The national awareness campaign brings together all levels of government, first responders and community partners to promote readiness and resilience.

Locally, the initiative is led by the Brampton Emergency Management Office (BEMO), which is emphasizing a simple message: preparedness begins with awareness.

City officials say understanding potential risks is the first step in developing a plan that protects households and strengthens neighbourhoods during unexpected situations.

“Preparedness doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple, proactive actions can make a meaningful difference when it matters most,” the city said.

The city is encouraging residents to take a few key steps:

Residents are advised to create a household emergency plan by discussing how family members will communicate, where they will meet and what to do if separated. Practicing the plan can help ensure a calm and coordinated response during a crisis.

Officials also recommend preparing a 72-hour emergency kit with essential supplies, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights and important documents, to remain self-sufficient during the early stages of an emergency.

The city noted that preparedness extends beyond households, with businesses and community organizations also playing a key role in reducing disruption and supporting recovery.

Business Continuity and Resilience Awareness Week, scheduled for May 18 to 22, will highlight the importance of planning under the theme “Think You’re Resilient? Well, Think Again!”

A business continuity plan can help organizations limit disruption and recover more quickly, the city said.

“While no plan can cover every scenario, simple preparation can make a meaningful difference,” the statement reads. “Preparedness is a shared effort.”

More information on emergency preparedness is available at  brampton.ca/prepared.