Emergency Measures Co-ordinators Meet in Truro

EMERGENCY MEASURES ORGANIZATION--Emergency Measures Co-ordinators Meet in Truro

Municipal emergency measures co-ordinators from across the province are in Truro today, May 14, and Wednesday, May 15, attending an annual conference hosted by Nova Scotia's Emergency Measures Organization.

The co-ordinators will discuss policy and issues related to emergency planning in Nova Scotia. This year's agenda includes a review of the roles and responsibilities of emergency measures co-ordinators, a summary of an emergency communications exercise with provincial radio stations, updates on the municipal evaluations process and a demonstration of a new database program called Target Nova Scotia.

"As we've seen all too often, emergencies can strike at any time and without warning," said Jamie Muir, Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act. "This annual event is an excellent opportunity for emergency measures co-ordinators from across the province to build relationships, share experiences and discuss common issues relative to emergency preparedness." Mr. Muir will address the conference delegates on Wednesday.

Municipalities provide the first level of response in an emergency. In a major emergency, the Emergency Measures Organization becomes the window to needed provincial and federal resources.

The province's Emergency Measures Organization also supports the emergency management process by providing training, advice and evaluation to emergency responders and emergency planners for all three levels of government, as well the private sector.

"Emergency management is very much a co-operative effort," said Mr. Muir. "As a province, we are indebted to the men and women, many of whom are volunteers, who are continually working to ensure that their communities are safe and prepared for an event we all hope never happens. It is through their efforts that Nova Scotia has developed a national reputation for its ability to respond quickly and expertly when faced with a disaster or emergency."