MNR is committed to protecting the health, safety and property of the people of Ontario from natural hazards.
Keeping Ontarians Safe
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The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) plays a key role in keeping communities safe and prepared against natural hazards.
We have been the lead for forest fire fighting and flood response for many years and have assisted communities, other ministries and federal agencies in preparing for and responding to hazards.
Over the past few years events like 9/11, the 2004 South East Asian Tsunami and reports of climate change have resulted in an increase in public awareness of emergencies. This in turn has lead Ontario through a revision of its legislation.
Our approach to dealing with emergencies is to use an international standard based upon 5 pillars of emergency management.
In 2005 MNR was assigned the responsibility of additional hazards. We are now working toward a comprehensive program building on existing expertise and knowledge.
Most emergency events are likely to cause, or at least have potential to cause an actual disruption in the services government is able to provide. Therefore, MNR has developed Continuity of Operation Plans that staff and services utilize to ensure critical government services continue. Continuity of operations planning within government is a requirement of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.
As MNR’s Emergency Management program evolves we will continue to work closely with Emergency Management Ontario, other ministries and communities to ensure a coordinated and effective response to provincial emergencies.
Please remember emergency preparedness starts with you.
