It is important to prepare for an emergency. It increases knowledge and reduces risks in the event of an unforeseen situation. Emergency preparedness is everyone's responsibility.
Emergencies include floods, severe weather, power outages, and blizzards that can happen at any time.
Tip: Prepare now. Don’t wait for an emergency to happen. Develop an emergency plan and assemble an emergency kit to help protect yourself, your family, and your household during an emergency. Ensure your emergency kit is stored in an accessible location and that all household members know where it is located.
If an emergency occurs in the community, you may need to be self-sufficient for a period of time before assistance is available. Residents are encouraged to be prepared to care for themselves and their families for at least 72 hours by having an emergency plan and an emergency kit readily available.
Depending on the type of emergency, you may need different supplies. You should buy or make your own emergency kit to help prepare in case you need to survive without power or running water.
These are the emergency essentials you need in your emergency kit:
food (non-perishable and easy-to-prepare items, enough for 3 days) and a manual can opener
bottled or bagged water (4 litres per person for each day) and backup water purification tablets
medication(s)
toilet paper and other personal items such as soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
personal protective equipment (PPE) such as medical masks and respirators
back up chargers and power banks for cell phone or mobile device
cash in small bills
portable light source such as a flashlight, headlamp or glow stick
radio (crank or battery-run)
extra batteries
first-aid kit
candles and matches/lighter
hand sanitizer or moist towelettes
important papers such as a copy of your emergency plan, identification, contact lists, copies of prescriptions, etc.
extra car and house keys
whistle (to attract attention, if needed)
zip-lock bag (to keep things dry)
garbage bags and duct tape
The following list includes additional items you may require to meet your household’s unique needs:
items for babies and small children such as diapers, formula, bottles, baby food, etc.
comfort and sentimental items such as photos of loved ones, irreplaceable items, etc.
prescription medication
medical supplies, equipment and copies of care/support plans including contact information for doctors or specialists
extra pair of glasses or contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
To stay up-to-date on important information from the City of Port Colborne during an emergency, subscribe to our news channel or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Canadian Niagara Power
To find out information about power outages, and emergency preparedness, visit the Canadian Niagara Power inc. websiteas well as follow them on Facebook and Twitter. During major events tune into local radio stations for information as available.
Important Phone Numbers
City of Port Colborne - 905-835-2900
Canadian Niagara Power Inc. - 1-844-501-9473
Niagara Regional Police - 905-871-2300
Niagara Region - 905-685-1571
Police / Fire / Ambulance - 9-1-1
911 is for Emergencies Only
Call 911 only for emergencies that require immediate assistance from police, fire, or paramedic services. Examples include fires, serious medical emergencies, crimes in progress, or situations where life, safety, property, or the environment is at immediate risk.
Tip: Before calling 911, ensure you can provide your location, the nature of the emergency, and any other important details to help emergency responders assist you quickly and effectively.
Police / Fire / Ambulance - 9-1-1
Emergency preparedness is everyone's responsibility.
The City of Port Colborne encourages residents, businesses, and visitors to be prepared for emergencies before they occur. Through emergency management planning, public education, and community partnerships, the City works to strengthen preparedness, resilience, and the ability to respond effectively to emergencies.
Understanding the risks that may affect your home, family, workplace, or community is an important part of being prepared. By knowing local hazards, developing a household emergency plan, and maintaining an emergency kit, you can reduce risks and be better prepared to respond to unexpected situations.
Being informed and prepared helps protect you, your family, and the community during emergencies, while contributing to a safer and more resilient Port Colborne.
Tip: Know the risks. Make an emergency plan. Build an emergency kit. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in the event of an emergency.
