Even in the midst of a pandemic, the city of Windsor is reiterating the importance of staying ready to handle an emergency.
Emergency Preparedness Week, a nationwide initiative designed to encourage preparedness for issues that may result in property damage or loss of life, began Sunday and runs through Saturday.
The message of the week is even more important not only because of the COVID-19 crisis, but also the increased risk of flooding on the city's east side. Continued high water levels on Lake St. Clair and Detroit River have kept emergency officials on their toes. With that, the city is drawing attention back to its alert system, Windsor Alerts.
"This is a good time to remind and encourage all residents to stay informed by signing up for the city of Windsor’s new public alerting system," read a statement posted on the city's official website.
Windsor Alerts operates by monitoring conditions that could lead to a serious local crisis, such as severe weather, tornadoes, fires, and so on. Once such an occurrence takes place, the city sends alert messages to electronic devices such as cell phones and tablets. The system is beneficial not only for Windsor residents, but also for non-residents who work in the city.
Emergency Preparedness Week is also a good time for residents to either put together an emergency kit, or check it and replace anything that is expired or not working, such as batteries, food, and medication. The emergency kit should have enough supplies to last you at least 72 hours.
The city's emergency preparedness guide is also available on the city's website, and residents are encouraged to download it and find tips on how to be ready should an emergency arise.
