The City of Cornwall was honoured on Wednesday with a major announcement in the field of emergency preparedness.
During her visit, Jill Dunlop, Ontario's Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, announced that the City of Cornwall has received $41,000 through the 2024-25 Community Emergency Preparedness Grant (CEPG). This funding marks an important step for the city's resilience and readiness for future emergencies.
"To protect Ontario, communities and organizations need the resources to respond efficiently and effectively in times of crisis and our government is proud to support the City of Cornwall in this mission," said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response. "I have seen first-hand how communities across the province are stronger when they have the capacity to come together to support each other when disaster strikes."
With the funds, Cornwall purchased the following to assist with emergency preparedness:
- DJI M30T Drone
- DJI Mini 4 Drone
- IT upgrades to the mobile command vehicle for improved emergency situational awareness
- Consulting for Emergency Management, including plan updates, hazard risk assessment, continuity planning, and reviewing public education efforts
Drones quickly assess emergencies like fires or severe weather and send data to city officials. Cornwall Fire Services, Cornwall Police, and Municipal Works staff are currently training for Advanced Remotely Piloted Aircraft certification.
Additionally, the funding has enabled upgrades in mobile command centre technology, enhancing its operational capability and connectivity so incident commanders can make key decisions using current information.
"When disaster strikes, preparedness saves lives," said Nolan Quinn, MPP of Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. "Through the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant, our government is equipping Cornwall and all of Ontario with the resources to keep our communities safe, no matter what we may face."
"I would like to thank Minister Dunlop, and the Province of Ontario, for their support of our first responders and Emergency Management Plan", said Mayor Justin Towndale. "This investment will ensure that we are prepared and able to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of emergencies, thereby saving time and, most importantly, lives".
The City of Cornwall routinely updates its emergency management program to better protect residents, infrastructure, and improve disaster recovery. It modernizes policies, training, technology, and public education to minimize risks and coordinate effective crisis response.