This Key Driver does not contribute to the 2030 Emissions Target.
Key Driver
9. Improve climate emergency preparedness
Emergency planning is not just about responding to immediate threats; it’s also about preparedness, recovery, and rebuilding in the aftermath of those events. Communities that are better prepared tend to recover more quickly, reducing the long-term social and economic impacts of emergencies.
Contribution to 2030 Emissions Target
Equity Considerations
• Ensure that emergency information is accessible to all, including non-English speakers, people with disabilities, and seniors.
• Ensure that vulnerable populations have access to cooling locations during extreme heat events and warming during extreme cold events. However, there are limitations to the use of cooling locations for more vulnerable individuals living indoors as people are exposed to heat going to/from cooling locations. Further, to adequately reduce risk, cooling centres must be open late as homes could be at peak temperatures late in the evening.
• Encourage increasing social connections and social safety net for all people that may find emergency information less accessible.Co-Benefits
- Improved health
- Improved livability
Climate Hazards Addressed
- Heat
- Cold
- Wildfire
- Flood
- Landslide
- Air quality
Strategies
EP1. Enhance climate emergency response planning
A proactive approach is vital for safeguarding communities against the increasing frequency and severity of climate-induced events such as wildfires, floods, and extreme weather patterns.
EP2. Empower the community to be prepared for climate emergencies
By actively involving the community in preparedness initiatives, through information sharing, education and support, individuals become more than just passive recipients of aid; they become active participants in safeguarding their environment and well-being.