Being emergency ready works best when everyone has a role. Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. Individuals can take steps to prepare, and communities can support one another before, during and after an emergency.
Making a plan ahead of time is an important part of being prepared.
Learn more about how to prepare for emergencies in the Get Emergency Ready Guide. The guide is also available in additional languages.
Being ready for an emergency starts with having an emergency plan. Writing your plans helps everyone in your home know what to do during and after.
Your plan should include:
Fill out an “In Case of Emergency” Information Sheet with important medical details. Keep it up to date and post it somewhere easy to find, like your fridge.
Getting ready for an emergency can feel overwhelming or expensive, but you don’t need to buy everything at once. You may already have some supplies at home. Start with the basics and look for deals at grocery stores, dollar stores or thrift shops.
These supplies are important if you need to stay at home during an emergency. Store them somewhere that’s easy to get to during a power outage or in the dark, such as a hall closet, under a bed, in a spare room or garage.
Prepare at least a three-day supply of water and ready-to-eat foods you enjoy. Choose items that do not need cooking, refrigeration or electricity.
A grab and go bag should be lightweight and easy to carry in case you need to leave right away in an emergency. Everyone in your household should have one, and it should include the following items:
Insurance can help protect homeowners and tenants from financial hardship after an emergency caused by an insured event, such as a fire or flood. Insurance may cover some costs such as temporary accommodation, repairs and the replacement of belongings.
Additional living expenses (ALE) coverage helps pay for temporary accommodation and other expenses, such as meals, if you cannot stay in your home because of an insured event. This coverage is intended to help you maintain a similar standard of living while you are displaced. It usually works like this:
A deductible is the amount you pay when you make a claim for damage to your home or belongings. Deductibles may not apply to hotel or meal costs when there is also damage to your home and belongings. Knowing what your insurance policy covers can help you understand which costs you may need to pay up front.
If you need money to cover initial costs, contact your insurance company as soon as possible after an insured event. Ask whether they can provide an advance payment or directly bill the hotel.
If you have insurance, review your policy so you understand what it covers, including additional living expenses, how much coverage you have and how long it lasts. If you do not have insurance, contact an insurance company representative to learn about your options.
Insurance Bureau of Canada
Call: 1-844-227-5422
Email: ConsumerCentre@ibc.ca
Your landlord’s insurance does not cover your personal belongings. Having your own insurance policy can help you replace what is lost and pay for a safe place to stay if your home is damaged by an incident covered by your policy.
Get to safety first, then contact your insurance company. Most insurers are available 24 hours a day, and you may also be able to use an app on your phone. Keep all receipts and record your expenses.
Be ready to share:
Your insurance company should:
If you cannot live in your home, ask your insurance provider whether you have coverage for additional living expenses, how long the coverage lasts and the dollar limit.
Prepare additional emergency supplies for each pet or service animal:
If you need to evacuate, bring your pets or service animals with you. Toronto Animal Services and Toronto Emergency Management will help pet owners find options for safe shelter during emergencies.
Prepare additional emergency supplies for each child or baby in your care:
If you have a disability (like hearing loss or limited mobility) or a health condition (like asthma or a heart issue), it’s important to plan for emergencies based on your needs. If you use life-sustaining equipment or need regular care, make sure your support network knows how to check on you quickly if an emergency happens or if you are asked to evacuate.
Talk to a doctor or healthcare professional for personalized advice. These are some extra supplies to consider for emergencies to support your health, communication and dignity:
If you live in a high-rise or condo, familiarize yourself with your building’s evacuation plan. Speak to the property owner to be added to the “Persons Requiring Assistance During Evacuation” list.
Whether you live in a house, apartment, condo or another type of home, it is important to take steps to prepare for emergencies. Being prepared can help protect you, your household and your property.
Start by taking simple actions that can make a big difference during an emergency:
Emergencies often impact entire communities. Getting to know your neighbours and working together can help everyone stay safer and recover more quickly when a crisis happens.
Here are some ways you can build a stronger, more prepared community:
Community Check-in Systems are a great way to stay connected and support each other during emergencies:
Get to know community support around you. Dial 211 or visit 211central.ca to find local community and government support services.
Volunteering is another great way to support your community. Organizations like Volunteer Toronto, Ontario Corps and Team Rubicon train volunteers and deploy them within 24 to 72 hours in emergencies.
Emergencies can happen any time, even during your workday. Think about what you need to feel safe, stay warm and get home if something unexpected happens. Keeping a few important items, like walking shoes, snacks or a phone charger at your workplace or in a small bag can help you feel calm and comfortable.
The Get Emergency Ready – At Work guide explains what to do during workplace emergencies. This includes fire alarms, lockdowns, active shooter situations, medical emergencies and dealing with suspicious packages or threats. The guide is meant to support your workplace Emergency Plans and Procedures, including Fire Safety Plans, not to replace them.
Landlords must maintain habitable conditions in residential buildings, including essential services like electricity, hot water and heat during the coldest months. Conditions must not threaten the life, health or safety of tenants. Preparing your building and residents for emergencies such as severe weather or prolonged power outages is critical.