An emergency situation is defined as: "a situation caused by forces of nature, an accident, an intentional gesture or any other type of events, which constitutes a grave danger to life or property".

Here as some examples of situations, which can require emergency measures:

• inundation, tornado, hurricane, ice storm;
• epidemic and pandemic;
• traffic accident;
• hazardous material spill;
• collapse of a building or structure;
• uncontrollable fire, an explosion, forest fires;
• Failure of an essential service (electricity, drinking water shortage).

• Influenza pandemic
  Click here for more information on the Quebec plan to fight an influenza pandemic

Even by taking the best precautions, one cannot foresee all emergencies. However, one can prepare for such eventualities. It is why the Municipality of Morin-Heights has its own Public Safety plan which describes the implementation of measures in order to assist its population in case of disaster or emergency.
This emergency plan describes the step and measures to be put in place in various situations, such as:

• Intervention plans for emergency services (police, fire fighters, paramedics);
• Evacuation plan;
• Opening of accommodation centers;
• Supply of water and food;
• Call in other support service for the victims;
• A plan to reintegrate the premises;
• Any other required measure to ensure the safety of persons and their possessions.

The municipal authorities declare an emergency when they deem it necessary. In case the state of emergency is declared, the Municipality is ready to assign intervention tasks to all the municipal employees and to request collaboration from rescue organisations and volunteers from community organisations.

Despite the presence of this army of volunteers, you can play an essential role as a person in protecting your life and the life of your loved ones. The best way to protect yourself is to know what to do. In this section of the web site, you will find practical advice to help you prepare for emergencies. You can also visit the government’s web site section on What to Do Before, During and After a Disaster?
To learn more on the organisation for Public Safety in Quebec, consult the Ministère de la Sécurité civile’s web site

Other links

• Power Safety (Hydro-Québec)
• Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux
• Food Safety (Agriculture, Fisheries and Food consumption) (French only)
• Various publications on how to get prepared in case of emergencies
• What to do in case of flood?
• Before a disaster...
• During a disaster