When an emergency impacts you, the days that follow can feel overwhelming. Taking the right steps early can help protect your safety, support your recovery and make it easier to access insurance or disaster assistance programs that may become available.

Your safety comes first

Before returning to your property:

• Follow all directions from emergency officials

• Do not enter damaged buildings until they have been assessed for safety

• Watch for hazards such as downed power lines, unstable structures, contaminated water, gas leaks and debris

• If you are unsure whether it is safe to return, contact your utility provider or emergency services

Document the damage

As soon as it is safe to do so:

• Take photos and videos of all damage before beginning cleanup

• Create a list of damaged or destroyed items

• Keep receipts for cleanup, repairs, temporary accommodations and emergency purchases

• Record the time spent on cleanup and restoration work

Keeping thorough records can support insurance claims and may be required for disaster assistance programs.

Contact your insurance provider

Insurance should be your first source of recovery assistance. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to:

• Open a claim

• Document your damages

• Understand what is covered under your policy

• Obtain information regarding any coverage exclusions

Provincial disaster assistance programs generally do not cover costs that could have been covered by insurance.

Begin cleanup and recovery

Once it is safe:

• Remove water, debris and damaged materials as quickly as possible

• Take photos throughout the cleanup process

• Keep receipts for all supplies, equipment rentals and contractor services

• Save copies of inspection reports, repair estimates and other documentation

Look for available supports

Depending on the emergency, support may be available through:

• Insurance providers

• Community organizations and non-profits

• Provincial disaster assistance programs

Financial assistance and recovery supports

Depending on the type and severity of an emergency, financial assistance programs may be made available by other levels of government. Residents and businesses should always contact their insurance provider first and keep records of damage and recovery costs.

Provincial disaster assistance

The Government of Alberta's Hazard Assistance and Resilience Program (HARP) may provide financial assistance for eligible disaster-related losses that are not covered by insurance. The Province determines when the program is activated, eligibility requirements and approved expenses. Strathcona County does not administer the program or determine eligibility.

Learn more about HARP on the Government of Alberta's HARP website.

Emotional and mental wellbeing

Recovering from an emergency can be challenging. Along with physical damage or disruptions to daily life, emergencies can also affect your emotional and mental well-being.

Pay attention to how you and your family members are coping during recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling, talk to someone you trust and consider reaching out to a healthcare professional or mental health support service.

Be prepared for future emergencies

Recovery is also an opportunity to prepare for future events. Consider:

• updating your emergency plan

• reviewing your insurance policy

• building or refreshing your emergency preparedness kit

• taking steps to reduce future risks to your property

• taking photos of your home and belongings to document valuables, purchases and other items for potential future claims