Ontario Gears Up for Exercise Heatwave to Enhance Emergency Preparedness

Toronto – Ontario is taking proactive measures to bolster its emergency response capabilities with the upcoming Exercise Heatwave, scheduled to take place from May 7 to 9. As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, the provincial government is organizing this simulated large-scale exercise to refine procedures and coordination in handling extreme heat emergencies.

Caroline Mulroney, President of the Treasury Board and Minister responsible for Emergency Management, underscored the significance of such exercises in preparing for potential crises. “Exercise Heatwave is a valuable opportunity to practise and plan for our response to potential extreme heat emergencies,” she stated. Mulroney emphasized that these drills play a critical role in ensuring the safety of Ontarians while minimizing economic strain and environmental impacts.

The exercise, part of the multi-year Provincial Exercise Program, will involve six municipalities: Guelph, Mississauga, Peterborough, Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay, and Toronto. Alongside these municipalities, federal government departments and over 50 non-governmental organizations will participate, aiming to enhance coordination and collaboration in emergency response efforts.

Importantly, Exercise Heatwave will not disrupt public services, ensuring minimal impact on residents during the exercise period. In conjunction with the exercise, the province is reminding Ontarians of essential steps they can take to stay safe during heat-related emergencies, including creating emergency plans, building preparedness kits, and being aware of heat-related illness symptoms.

This exercise aligns with recent initiatives to strengthen emergency management in Ontario, such as the modernization of the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre and the release of the first annual report on the Provincial Emergency Management Strategy and Action Plan. Furthermore, the province’s investment in community emergency preparedness grants reflects its commitment to empowering local communities to enhance their response capabilities.

Local officials from participating municipalities expressed their appreciation for the collaborative effort and emphasized the value of provincial-municipal cooperation in safeguarding communities during crises.