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Home / News / Include 211 Alberta in your emergency preparedness plan
June 10, 2024
During a crisis like a wildfire evacuation, people need accurate information quickly. 211 Alberta is a key resource, ensuring Albertans have the information they need, when they need it — even when the situation changes rapidly.
Navigating the social sector is hard. But it’s even more difficult during a crisis — like a wildfire evacuation — that often happens without warning.
The key to emergency preparedness is having a robust plan and knowing the right resources to turn to when crisis happens. Whether you’re preparing your own emergency response plan or helping others navigate disaster response, 211 Alberta is here to help.
211 Alberta is a helpline and resource database that connects Albertans to a full range of community, government, social and health services across the province. 211 Alberta is free, confidential, and available 24/7 in over 170 languages over the phone, text, and online chat.
211 Alberta is provided in partnership by United Way of the Alberta Capital Region, Distress Centre Calgary, and Canadian Mental Health Association – Edmonton.
211 Alberta provides one easy-to-remember number that can connect people with other supports, so they don’t have to keep track of many help lines.
During emergencies, 211 Alberta plays a crucial role by directing callers to essential services such as emergency shelters, supply locations, and donation centers. It serves as a lifeline for those seeking guidance and support, ensuring that the needs of the community are met promptly and efficiently.
When creating your emergency preparedness plan, including 211 Alberta is essential.
Information Hub: 211 Alberta acts as a centralized hub for authoritative information, which is critical during an emergency. 211 Alberta maintains an up-to-date list of resources that can help people who have been impacted. This helps reduce the burden on emergency services by providing non-urgent assistance, allowing first responders to focus on immediate threats.
Data Insights and Coordination: In times of crisis, 211 Alberta plays a key role in identifying trends in the needs and unmet needs of those who reach out for support. These data support decision-makers as they mobilize resources as part of emergency preparedness and recovery planning. 211 Alberta strives to build sector capacity and connections by coordinating with local community organizations prior to disaster striking.
Compassionate 24/7 Support: With support available in over 170 languages, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, 211 Alberta is always ready to assist. In collaboration with Canadian Mental Health Association – Edmonton and Distress Centre Calgary, 211 Alberta Navigators provide compassionate support post-disaster while also helping people navigating the complex social sector.
Whether you need help or are looking to help, 211 Alberta can direct you to the right place in times of crisis. Photo by Adobe Stock.
Stay Informed: Sign up for Alberta Emergency Alerts to receive real-time updates on potential risks to your health and safety.
Get Prepared: Create a household emergency plan so you’re ready to take care of yourself and your loved ones for up to a week during a major emergency. This includes having an emergency kit ready with all necessary supplies.
Local Resources: Familiarize yourself with local resources and how to access them during an emergency. This includes knowing how to contact 211 Alberta and understanding the services they provide. It’s also important to understand when to call other three-digit numbers, like 911, 988, and 811.
Community Engagement: Connect with your neighbour and community members to share information and resources. This collective effort can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of the emergency response.
Whether you need help or are looking to help, 211 Alberta can direct you to the right place.
By working together with front-line organizations, sector partners, and government, 211 Alberta is ensuring Albertans have the information they need, when they need it.
While preparedness starts with you, it’s the strength of our collective efforts that truly makes a difference in times of crisis.
Wildfire situations can change rapidly. 211 Alberta has implemented a permanent Wildfire Resources landing page to provide information and resources during wildfire evacuation alerts.
Edmonton organizations are making it easier to find culturally supportive mental health care resources, reducing the stigma around counselling and therapy.
Women United contributions go directly to United Way programs and local front-line agencies that offer services and resources to women and girls who face intersectional barriers to success. In this article, we share how United Way and our local front-line agencies work together to address barriers that largely impact women in our community.
With the introduction of 988 as a suicide prevention line, Albertans now have more options when navigating the network of mental health support or social services.
