Ensuring best practices for emergencies

By Sharon McLeay Times Contributor

The Alberta government is updating emergency management policies following an in-depth review.
“When disaster strikes, Albertans need to have confidence that there is an effective program to help them recover. There can be great challenges when trying to overcome the financial loss as a result of disasters, and we are committed to supporting Albertans and municipalities through these challenging times,” said Shaye Anderson, Alberta Minister of Municipal Affairs, at an October press conference outlining updates for emergency response.
The Alberta Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) reviewed independent reports on response efforts in the province involving major disasters over the last 10 years, and they recognized a need for updated legislation to help keep Albertans safe. They consulted with 92 municipalities and five organizations in 2018 and came up with some changes and now are introducing added features for municipalities and emergency services.
Cities, towns, counties, villages, summer villages, special and improvement districts, areas and Metis settlements are required to meet the new regulations and must have an emergency advisory committee. A management agency, management plan and regional collaboration plans must be in place by Jan. 1, 2020.
All areas will be required to have an emergency plan, and mandatory training for elected officials and employees. An advisory committee will be appointed through bylaw, setting out the purpose of the committee and their scope in and outside of emergency situations. The emergency management plan will also be set by bylaw, setting out responsibilities, and appointment of a director for emergency management, giving local authority for the emergency management program. It will include a hazards assessment risk and outline a training program for those involved in the plan. The plan must include a communication plan as to how public alerts will be delivered and outline services provided in the event of an emergency.
AEMA is assisting with the process by offering a field officer program, online and in-class training, online applications and templates, support and guidance as a resource and will offer grants for programs.
Alan Parkin, chief administrative officer with Wheatland County, said the county will be addressing the new requirements and will be dealing with drafting the bylaw in 2019.