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May 8, 2009
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Scouts, Cubs and Beavers Learn About Emergency Preparedness

Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour

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Premier Robert Ghiz and Carolyn Bertram, Minister Responsible for Public Safety, were joined by nearly 50 Scouts, Cubs and Beavers at Province House last evening to launch a new Scouts Canada Emergency Preparedness Program.

National Emergency Preparedness Week (May 3-9) is held annually to encourage and promote emergency preparedness through a three-step action plan which everyone can implement.

• Know the risks - Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to your community and your region can help you better prepare.

• Make a plan - It will help you and your family know what to do.

• Get an emergency kit - Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency.

“EP Week recognizes and reinforces the public benefit provided by the emergency planning and response activities of volunteers, industry and local government throughout the Province,” said Premier Ghiz. “I encourage all Islanders to take these three simple steps to better prepare you and your family to face a range of emergencies.”

The new Scouts Canada programs consist of a “Jump Start” curriculum package for Beavers, a permanent award for Cubs and a badge for Scouts. The program was developed by Scouts Canada in conjunction with Emergency Management Ontario, and is supported by the provincial Office of Public Safety and Public Safety Canada.

“Learning how to prepare for ice storms or hurricanes is an important part of Scouts Canada’s Emergency Preparedness Program,” said Minister Bertram. “This exciting new curriculum will fit well with the Scouts Motto ‘Be Prepared’ and with the values already instilled in the scouting community. It will prepare Scouts, Cubs and Beavers to assist their families and communities should an emergency occur.”

The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of Public Safety said, “Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility. Governments at all levels are working hard to keep Canadians safe, but everyone has a role to play. Do your part this week by taking stock of your supplies and making sure they meet your family’s needs. That way, when an emergency does happen, you’ll be better prepared and can minimize the impact on you and your loved ones.”

Information about the Scouts Canada program can be found at www.scouts.ca/ep.

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Media Contact: Connie McNeill
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