Emergency responders from across Ontario gathered in Simcoe County last week for the annual Simcoe Emergency Response Conference.
Minister Jill Dunlop and Warden Basil Clarke welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for their ongoing service – particularly recognizing the strong local and regional response to this year’s ice storm.
The County established the Simcoe Emergency Response Committee (SERC) in 2005 to enhance collaboration and coordination among municipalities and partner agencies. Now representing over 45 organizations, including emergency services, public health, education, and utilities, SERC continues to strengthen emergency planning and response across the region.
Friday’s conference featured presentations on flood risks, mass fatality planning, and lessons learned from Ottawa’s 2022 derecho, along with a showcase from Georgian Bay Volunteer Search and Rescue. Throughout 2025, the County has emphasized hands-on training, hosting large-scale simulations and municipal tabletop exercises in communities like Orillia, Oro-Medonte, and Alliston, testing readiness for incidents ranging from hazardous material leaks to mass casualty events.
Local Area Municipality Training sessions have also taken place in Bradford West Gwillimbury, Essa, Clearview, Collingwood, Penetanguishene, and Wasaga Beach, among others, reinforcing local emergency response plans.
For more information on how to stay prepared, click here.
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