Joint Statement from Mayor Cabott and Minister Mostyn on Emergency Preparedness in Whitehorse

City of Whitehorse Mayor Laura Cabott and Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn released the following joint statement:

“This year, wildfires have had – and continue to have – a devastating impact on communities across the North, throughout Canada and across North America.

“Here in the Yukon, we have seen the impacts of climate change, with flooding in the Klondike and severe fires leading to the evacuation of Old Crow and the Village of Mayo. We also see communities across Canada and the United States dealing with the impacts of natural disasters.

“Our thoughts are with those residents and communities that have been impacted, and with the first responders working tirelessly to support these communities. It is important to learn from these incidents to ensure the City of Whitehorse – along with all communities across the Yukon – are prepared to respond in the event of a large-scale wildfire, flood or similar emergency.

“Communities have the responsibility to review their emergency and evacuation plans. Over the coming months, the City of Whitehorse and the Government of Yukon will be reviewing their joint emergency response processes, evacuation plans and incorporating lessons and observations from other jurisdictions. This includes a review of how we communicate with residents before, during and after an emergency; how we inform people of evacuations; and how we work together through the territory’s Emergency Measures Organization. We can never be ‘too prepared’ for a natural disaster.

“In the event of a large-scale emergency, we all have a role to play. Residents can prepare for emergencies by having an emergency plan for their families and pets, making a 72-hour emergency kit, taking steps now to protect their homes and properties and following government and news sources that provide emergency updates. Whitehorse residents should subscribe to Whitehorse Alerts to be able to receive emergency information directly. Being prepared will help residents be able to evacuate quickly and safely, reduce the pressure on first responders and emergency personnel and ensure that they and their family are safe.”