Emergency Plan and Preparedness
Emergency Planning and Response
Bracebridge, along with our municipal partners across Muskoka, has experienced several large-scale emergencies in recent years—including flooding, severe snowstorms, and extended power outages.
To help manage these situations effectively, the Town has an Emergency Response Plan in place. This plan outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Emergency Control Group, which leads the Town’s response during an emergency.
The plan is reviewed every year, and mock exercises are conducted to ensure everyone is familiar with the procedures. It is developed under the authority of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and formalized through By-laws 2018-068 and 2018-069, passed by Town Council.
The Town’s Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC) oversees the plan and provides leadership to the Emergency Control Group throughout all stages of emergency response.
Be Ready
Why Every Household Needs an Emergency Plan and Kit
Emergencies can happen with little or no warning, whether it's a power outage, severe storm, flood, wildfire, or other unexpected events. Having a household emergency plan and a well-stocked emergency kit can make all the difference in keeping you and your loved ones safe, calm, and prepared.
Emergency Kits
Be prepared. An emergency kit is essential to keeping you safe and prepared should conditions change. Your emergency kit should include everything you and your family might need to shelter in place without power or access to basic services. Some important things to have in your kit includes:
- Bottled water (2L per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Manual can opener
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Battery-powered or crank radio
- First-aid kit
- Medications and personal items
- Extra keys for home and car
- Cash in small bills
- Phone charger (solar or crank)
- Important documents (ID, insurance) in a waterproof container
Don’t forget: supplies for pets, infants, or anyone with special needs.
Why an Emergency Plan Matters
Creating a plan helps ensure everyone in your household knows what to do, where to go, and how to stay connected during a crisis. It can:
- Reduce panic and confusion
- Speed up your response time
- Help you reunite with family if separated
- Ensure the needs of pets, young children, or people with health conditions are considered
Tip: Practice your plan at least once a year so everyone is familiar with it.
What to include in your Emergency Plan
- Emergency contacts (local and out-of-town)
- Safe meeting places (inside and outside your neighbourhood)
- Evacuation routes and shelter locations
- Health and medical information
- Plans for pets