Emergency preparedness encompasses activities undertaken before emergencies occur to ensure effective response when disasters strike. At the federal level, Public Safety Canada coordinates national emergency preparedness, supporting provincial and municipal programs through funding, training, and standards. Federal support includes the National Emergency Strategic Stockpile (medical supplies and equipment), emergency preparedness grants, training programs, and exercise coordination. Municipalities develop emergency management programs including risk assessments identifying local hazards, emergency response plans, business continuity arrangements, public alerting systems, and regular exercises testing capabilities. Preparedness also involves public education encouraging residents to maintain emergency supplies, develop household plans, and understand local risks. Effective emergency preparedness requires collaboration across all government levels and engagement with community partners like utilities, hospitals, and volunteer organizations.