Looking to ensure residents are prepared, the Calgary Emergency Management Agency is looking to launch an online registry this fall that will assist people in determining the most likely risks to their homes and neighborhoods. “It’s more to inform and allow people to make informed decisions about where they live and about the things they need to think about. I have plans and so, too, should others,” said Tom Sampson, chief of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency, to The Toronto Star.
Modeled on similar tools rolled out in various American cities, the Disaster Risk Registry will provide details on both potential natural threats, such as flooding or hail, along with man-made hazards such as power lines or proximity to dangerous goods. Flooding in particular remains a concern for Calgary, as a flood in 2013 caused nearly $6 billion in damages to the city and southern Alberta. Of the risks in coming years, Sampson noted to city councilors: “We need to be clear and manage your expectations … if we have the same kind of rainfall that we had in 2013, we will have flooding in Calgary.”
Sampson also recommends Calgary residents use the registry to assist in building 72-hour emergency preparedness kits, noting “If you know you’re in a prone area of risk, you should take steps in advance. What we know is steps taken in advance almost multiply six times. So, if you spend a dollar, you’ll often save six if you have a problem.”
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