Yukon, Whitehorse governments to review joint emergency response processes

The Yukon government and the City of Whitehorse are taking steps to review their joint emergency and evacuation plans with the goal of incorporating lessons and observations from other jurisdictions.

In a joint statement from Whitehorse Mayor Cabott and Yukon Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn, the governments said the review over the coming months will include looking at disaster communications, evacuation notices, and how they work together through the territory’s Emergency Measures Organization.

“We can never be ‘too prepared’ for a natural disaster,” the statement reads.

The ministers noted the devastating impacts of disasters in communities across North America this year, and the importance of learning from those incidents to ensure all Yukon communities are prepared to respond to a large-scale emergency.

The statement asked residents to prepare by having an emergency plan for their families and pets, making a 72-hour emergency kit, taking steps to protect their homes and properties, and following government and news sources that provide emergency updates. In Whitehorse, residents should subscribe to Whitehorse Alerts to receive direct emergency information.

“Being prepared will help residents be able to evacuate quickly and safely, reduce the pressure on first responders and emergency personnel and ensure that they and their family are safe,” the statement reads.