Emergency Preparedness

City of Fort Saskatchewan's Emergency Management Agency is comprised of a group of key administrative staff which plans, organizes and manages the prompt and coordinated response to major emergencies affecting our community. The Agency is headed by the Director of Emergency Management.

Emergency Notifications

As part of ongoing improvements to emergency preparedness, Fort Saskatchewan has removed its outdoor warning sirens. These sirens have been replaced with more effective and far-reaching electronic alert systems Alberta Emergency Alerts (AEA) and Fort Sask Alert System to ensure the public receives critical information promptly, wherever they are.

With the removal of the sirens, the primary method of emergency notification is now through electronic devices. Two types of notifications will be used:

Emergency Notifications – These are issued through Alberta Emergency Alerts (AEA) for events that pose a life-threatening risk and require immediate action from the public. These alerts are broadcast-intrusive, meaning they will interrupt all cellular-connected devices, radio, and television.
Important Information Notifications – These are used for less time-sensitive situations and provide basic instructions (e.g., avoid certain routes due to a bridge collapse) or guidance on where to find more information. These messages are sent through non-intrusive Alberta Emergency Alerts (AEA) and/or Fort Sask Alert System.

Download the Alberta Emergency Alerts (AEA) app

Types of advisories and alerts

Although the consequences of various disasters can be similar, knowing the risks can help you better prepare. Some may require an evacuation and others may mean we have to stay in our homes.

1. Shelter in place

This means you must remain inside your home or office and protect yourself there. Having a Ready-to-Stay Kit is important to make your shelter-in-place more comfortable.

Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.
Turn off all fans, heating and AC units systems to avoid drawing in the air from the outside.
Go to an interior room that’s above ground level, if possible, one without windows.
Have a Ready-to-Stay Kit including a battery or crank radio, cell phone, charger, and your computer if possible.
Use duct tape, or another wide tape, to seal all cracks around the door and any vents into the room.
Monitor your radio or social media until safe to leave or evacuate.

2. Evacuation

Stage one – Evacuation Alert

Emergency officials will notify you through the various channels – websites, social media, Fort Sask Alerts, etc., of the potential need to evacuate.
Information will be provided on the nature of the hazard.
An evacuation alert is given to provide you the opportunity to prepare yourself and your home in case of an evacuation.

Stage two – Evacuation Order

There are two types of evacuation orders:

Voluntary – is issued when officials believe that the public safety may be at risk.
Mandatory Evacuation Order – is issued when officials believe that the public safety may be at risk and conditions are such that the City is not able to provide its typical level of service. Authorities will not ask you to leave your home unless they have reason to believe that you may be in danger. When a mandatory evacuation order is issued, you must evacuate the affected area immediately.

Stage three – All Clear

Once the danger has passed, you will be officially told you can return to the area.

In case of an Emergency – General things to do

Listen to the radio and TV, and check media online websites and social media
Follow the City of Fort Saskatchewan social media accounts
Monitor and follow Alberta Emergency Alerts
Ensure your emergency kits are accessible, including medications
Have a 72 hour kit
Lock up your home
Register at the Reception Centre – follow our social media channels to find to find out where to go
Sign up for Fort Sask Alerts

Emergency and disaster preparedness

Emergencies can happen at any time and without warning. Be ready. With a little preparation, you can respond quickly to help yourself and others. Understand the risks in your area, create a household emergency plan and build an emergency kit.

Mandatory Reporting of Dangerous Goods Release or Fire Damage

The Fire Services Bylaw requires the owner of a property within the City of Fort Saskatchewan, or authorized agent of the owner, to report to the City, any accidental or unplanned release of a dangerous good, and/or of any property damaged by fire.

Additional Resources

Government of Canada Emergency Preparedness Guide

Shelter-In-Place