Emergency Management Ontario

Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) is the office of emergency management and division of the Ontario government, responsible for coordinating and overseeing emergency management across the province of Ontario, Canada. EMO sits within the Treasury Board Secretariat, and is responsible for planning for, responding to and recovering from all man-made or natural disasters within the province.^[1] Established in 1980, EMO plays a key role in ensuring municipalities and provincial ministries implement comprehensive emergency management initiatives^[2].

In cases where local capacities are overwhelmed, EMO may municipalities in accessing additional resources and support. During large-scale crises, the Premier and Cabinet of Ontario can declare a provincial emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, enabling the issuance of special emergency orders to protect the safety of Ontarians.

The agency also provides guidance and support to communities, First Nations, and ministries, offering advice on emergency management program development and execution^[2].