The Government of Ontario has partnered with the Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association to better protect communities during emergencies and disasters.
The Association is joining Ontario Corps alongside 21 other emergency-response groups made up of trained volunteers and skilled professionals who support communities across the province during natural disasters and emergencies.
The announcement was made in Bracebridge on Sept. 8 by Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
“Welcoming Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association to the Ontario Corps network means we can better facilitate access to heavy machinery and key expertise during emergencies,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response. “In the event of a flood, wildland fire or other emergency, we can assist municipalities in getting critical equipment and resources mobilized quickly to impacted communities.”
Parry Sound Muskoka MPP Graydon Smith, who was also in attendance, said having a strong network of emergency-response groups helped the region during last spring’s flooding across Muskoka.
“Municipal staffers, responders, and volunteers were working around the clock to protect homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure,” said Smith. “The Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response quickly mobilized flood barriers, pumps, other emergency equipment to communities like Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, and Muskoka Lakes to help protect essential infrastructure.
Officials said the Ontario Corps network can be mobilized within 24 to 72 hours to help communities hit hard by emergencies, deploying resources such as personnel, debris removal tools, supplies, flood barriers and drones.
