Emergency Preparedness Week reminds Islanders to be ready

Emergency Preparedness Week is May 3 – 9 and gives Island residents the chance to learn more about how to stay safe in emergency situations.

This year’s theme, Be Prepared. Know Your Risks., encourages everyone to understand the hazards in their local area so they can take proactive steps to stay safe. By being informed and prepared, people can better protect themselves, their families, and their communities in the face of emergencies.

“Our Island is resilient, and by staying informed and taking steps to prepare for emergencies, we can help ensure that everyone stays safe” said Minister of Justice and Public Safety Bloyce Thompson. “I encourage all Islanders to take some time next week to make sure they know the risks, make a plan, and put together an emergency kit.”

During Emergency Preparedness Week, the PEI Emergency Measures Organization will be conducting a test alert on the Alert Ready system Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at approximately 12:55pm. This pre-scheduled alert will indicate it is just a test.

Alert Ready is the Canadian emergency alerting system that delivers critical information to television, radio, and compatible wireless devices to ensure that citizens are aware and can take the appropriate steps in the event of immediate risk or danger. 

The PEI Emergency Measures Office will host free information sessions across the province throughout the week. These sessions will cover the hazards faced in PEI, how to get prepared, and what to do in an emergency. For the full schedule of events, visit Emergency Preparedness Week

“In Prince Edward, we face real risks from extreme weather, including hurricanes, ice storms, and severe cold. Being prepared at home isn’t optional, it’s essential,” said director of emergency management Jason Thistle. “Know what your household needs to stay safe and self-sufficient during an emergency and build a plan that reflects your family’s unique situation.”

For more information on getting prepared and building an emergency kit, visit How to be Prepared for an Emergency.

For more information on Emergency Preparedness events happening in your community, visit PEI Emergency Preparedness Week.  

Media contact:
Katie Cudmore 
Department of Justice and Public Safety
Katiecudmore@gov.pe.ca 

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