Emergency Preparedness

The Township publishes an Emergency Plan, which is reviewed every five years. The plan is required by the province and includes information on personnel and roles, incident management, and resources.

The Township has two emergency centres: Paul J Yakabuski Community Centre in Barry's Bay and Combermere Community Centre. These spaces may be used during emergencies as a central hub for first responders and support staff, as well as a designated public shelter when required.

The Township has a dedicated Emergency Control Group, where the below roles are filled by municipal employees. The Emergency Control Group is reviewed annually, and meets once a year for training and education. The CEMC reports compliance reports to the province annually.

• Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC)
• Alternate Community Emergency Management Coordinator
• Chief Administrative Officer
• Public Works Supervisor
• Communications Lead
• Treasurer

The Township meets with local partners annually to complete a table top exercise, a simulation of a potential disaster to test plans and procedures, clarify roles, identify gaps, and strengthen teamwork. 

The Municipal Control Group meets with the following partners for these exercises:

• Ontario Provincial Police
• St Francis Memorial Hospital
• EMO Field Officer
• Hydro One
• Renfrew County Paramedic Service
• Renfrew County Public Works
• Ministry of Transportation