Moving to a new community means learning how to stay safe and knowing what to do in an emergency.
Whether you live in Brandon or another Westman community, understanding local emergency services and preparing ahead of time can make a big difference.
⸻
Emergency Numbers
🚑 Call 911 Immediately For:
- Medical emergencies
- House fires
- Serious traffic collisions
- Crimes in progress
- Situations where someone’s life or safety is at immediate risk
Only use 911 for emergencies.
⸻
Non-Emergency Situations
Not every situation requires 911.
Examples include:
- Reporting minor property damage
- Noise complaints
- Lost property
- General police inquiries
- Municipal service requests
Look up the appropriate non-emergency number for your local community before you need it.
⸻
Fire Safety at Home
Every household should:
✔ Install smoke alarms.
✔ Test smoke alarms regularly.
✔ Keep a fire extinguisher where appropriate.
✔ Create a family escape plan.
✔ Choose a meeting place outside your home.
⸻
Severe Weather
Westman can experience different types of severe weather throughout the year, including:
- Winter storms
- Heavy snowfall
- Strong winds
- Thunderstorms
- Tornado warnings
- Flooding in some areas
Pay attention to official weather alerts and follow instructions from local authorities.
⸻
Emergency Preparedness
Every household should have an emergency plan and emergency supplies.
A home emergency kit should include items such as:
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights
- Batteries or power banks
- First aid kit
- Essential medications
- Important documents
- Cash in small bills
The Manitoba Emergency Management Organization recommends keeping emergency supplies ready and reviewing them regularly.
⸻
Vehicle Emergency Kit
If you drive in Manitoba, especially during winter, it’s a good idea to carry emergency supplies in your vehicle.
Recommended items include:
- Blanket
- Booster cables
- Ice scraper
- Snow brush
- Small shovel
- Flashlight
- Phone charger
- Water
- Snacks
- First aid kit
These items can be especially helpful if your vehicle becomes stranded during severe weather.
⸻
Family Emergency Plan
Talk with your family about:
- Where to meet if separated
- Emergency contact numbers
- Who will pick up children if needed
- How to communicate if phone service is limited
- Where important documents are stored
Preparing in advance helps reduce stress during an emergency.
⸻
Staying Informed
Reliable sources of information include:
- Environment and Climate Change Canada weather alerts
- Manitoba Emergency Management Organization
- Your local municipality
- Local radio and news
Following official sources helps you receive timely information during severe weather or emergencies.
⸻
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call 911?
Only call 911 when there is an immediate threat to life, health, or property that requires an urgent emergency response.
⸻
Should every family have an emergency kit?
Yes. Emergency management organizations recommend keeping emergency supplies and a household emergency plan ready before an emergency occurs.
⸻
What should I keep in my vehicle during winter?
Consider carrying blankets, food, water, a flashlight, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a shovel, and other emergency supplies.
⸻
Related Guides
Continue exploring:
⸻
Need Help?
Looking for emergency preparedness information or local safety resources?
Westman Local Concierge can help direct you to official local services and community resources.