Emergencies can happen anytime.

GPREP is activated during a large-scale emergency or disaster in the region, or when one is likely to occur. Activation depends on the nature and scale of the event and whether coordination across multiple municipalities or more resources are needed.

When GPREP is activated, municipal staff and regional response partners gather at the Incident Command Post and at the Evacuee Reception Centre (if Centre required). While first responders focus on managing the emergency on the ground, GPREP provides support by:

• Coordinating resources across the region
• Sharing timely information with municipalities and the public
• Assisting with decision-making and planning
• Addressing broader community and regional needs

This ensures a coordinated and organized approach, helping the community respond efficiently and safely.

Activation can be requested by designated first responders, such as the police or fire departments, or by authorized municipal officials. These individuals determine if regional coordination will help manage the incident more effectively.

Emergency Social Services (ESS) is a program that supports individuals and families who have been displaced by a large-scale emergency or disaster. As part of its regional emergency management role, GPREP includes an ESS component that coordinates these supports during an activation. ESS provides short-term assistance such as lodging, food, clothing, and other essential services to help protect the physical and emotional well-being of evacuees during a difficult time.

During a large-scale emergency or disaster, the public may be notified and updated in several ways:

• Alberta Emergency Alerts are issued to inform residents and individuals within a specific area about potential risks to their health and safety. You can visit the Alberta Emergency Alert website for current emergency information and updates, and you can also download the mobile app to receive alerts directly on your device.
• Local television and radio news
• Municipal websites and official social media channels, including:
  1. GPREP (when activated)
  2. City of Grande Prairie
  3. County of Grande Prairie
  4. Town of Beaverlodge
  5. Town of Sexsmith
  6. Town of Wembley

• General Emergencies - For police, ambulance, or fire department: 911
• ATCO Electric - For power outage emergencies or electrical issues: 1-800-668-5506
• ATCO Gas - For gas line-related issues or if you smell gas (often described as "rotten eggs"): 1-800-511-3447
• Aquatera - For waterline and sewer-related maintenance, breaks, or other emergencies (only for City of Grande Prairie, Sexsmith, and parts of Clairmont): 780-882-7800
• Alberta Fish and Wildlife - For wildlife-related emergencies: 1-800-642-3800
• Alberta Wildfire - To report a wildfire: 310-FIRE(3474)

A comprehensive list of other emergency phone numbers in Alberta can be found at on the Government of Alberta's Emergency Number Webpage.

During a large-scale emergency, first responders may be focused on those in immediate danger. That is why it is important for individuals and families to be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least three days. Having a well-stocked emergency kit with essential supplies can help keep you safe and comfortable during that time.
 

For guidance on how to build an emergency kit and create a household emergency plan, visit the Government of Alberta website for preparedness information at Emergency Preparedness.

GPREP is funded collaboratively by its five municipal partners: the City of Grande Prairie, the County of Grande Prairie, and the Towns of Beaverlodge, Sexsmith, and Wembley. Each municipality contributes annually to support regional emergency management services.