Prepare for an Emergency

Emergencies can happen at any time, often with little warning. Being prepared can help reduce risk, protect your family, and support a faster, safer response during an emergency. 

This page outlines practical steps you can take to prepare for emergencies, where to find reliable alerts and updates, and how the Town responds during major incidents. 

Preparing for emergencies 

Emergency preparedness starts with simple actions you can take today. Planning ahead helps ensure you know what to do, where to go, and how to stay informed when an emergency occurs. 

To help you prepare, review Halton Region’s guide to preparing for emergencies. The guide provides step-by-step information to help you identify emergency risks, create an emergency plan, and build an emergency kit.  

The sections below outline three key steps to help you and your household prepare. 

1. Know the risks 

Milton and the surrounding region may be affected by a range of natural, technological, and human-caused hazards. 

Understanding the risks in your area helps you prepare appropriately and make informed decisions during an emergency. Take time to learn what hazards are most likely to affect where you live and work. 

2. Make a plan 

Having a plan helps everyone in your household know what to do during an emergency of any size. 

Your emergency plan should: 

  • Include emergency contact information 

  • Address plans for your home and workplace 

  • Consider the needs of children, older adults, pets, and people with disabilities 

  • Include arrangements for pets and service animals 

  • Be shared with everyone in your household 

Knowing what to do ahead of time can reduce confusion and stress during an emergency. 

3. Get an emergency kit 

An emergency kit helps ensure you and your family can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.

Pre-incident planning 

Planning ahead can make a significant difference during an emergency, especially for businesses, organizations, and facilities. 

Pre-incident planning involves collaboration between Milton Fire & Rescue Services and property owners and occupants. 

Completing a pre-incident planning questionnaire helps fire prevention staff better understand your facility and may support emergency response planning.

Emergency alerts and information 

Staying informed during an emergency is critical. The resources below provide timely updates and reliable information to help keep you and your family safe.

Wireless emergency alerts send notifications directly to compatible mobile devices for life-threatening emergencies. 

Learn more about Wireless Public Alerting and check whether your device is compatible.

For information about health-related emergencies, such as disease outbreaks or epidemics, consult: 

For updates on emergency road conditions and transportation impacts, visit the Ministry of Transportation.

Follow Milton Hydro for updates and information about power outages in the area. 

If you are concerned about a hazardous spill, information and updates are available from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. 

Milton’s emergency response plan 

If the Mayor declares a local or non-made-in-Milton emergency, Town staff follow the Milton Emergency Response Plan. 

The Town works with emergency services and partner agencies, including police and fire departments, to coordinate response efforts and help ensure the safety of residents, businesses, and visitors.

How this information affects you 

Preparing in advance can reduce injury and property damage, improve response and recovery outcomes, help you make informed decisions during emergencies, and support the safety of your household and community.