Be Prepared and Sign Up for Free Be Emergency Ready Workshop This Spring

March 9, 2026 — As Spring approaches, bringing the potential for rising river levels with snowmelts, heavy rain, localized flooding, windstorms and power outages, the City of Maple Ridge is encouraging residents to get prepared by taking part in free Be Emergency Ready workshops.

The workshops, offered at the Maple Ridge Public Library (22470 Dewdney Truck Rd.), provide residents with practical tools and knowledge to keep themselves and their families safe during emergencies.

Participants will learn how to:

• Prepare for spring flooding and other seasonal hazards
• Build an effective emergency kit
• Create a family emergency plan
• Stay informed before, during and after an emergency

“Spring weather can be unpredictable, especially with heavy rain, snowmelt and rapidly changing river conditions,” said Edd Bennett, the City’s Emergency Program Manager. “Taking simple steps now like building an emergency kit and making a household plan can make a big difference if flooding or severe weather impacts our community. These workshops are a great opportunity for residents to get prepared and stay informed.”

Workshop Schedule

Maple Ridge Public Library (22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd.)

• Tuesday, April 14 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, April 30 | 2 – 4 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 12 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, May 21 | 2 – 4 p.m.
• Thursday, June 18 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 23 | 2 – 4 p.m.

Workshops are free and open to all residents. Registration details and additional resources/information are available at MapleRidge.ca/EmergencyReadiness.

Be Prepared for Emergencies of All Kinds

Flooding and severe weather events are becoming more common. All residents are encouraged to:

• Know the Risks – View more information and flood maps at MapleRidge.ca/Flood
• Make a Plan – Create a family emergency plan, including arrangements for pets and livestock.
• Gather Supplies – Ensure you have enough supplies to last 72 hours to one week.

The City’s Emergency Readiness Program works year-round to reduce risk, enhance response capabilities, and support community resilience through public education, planning, training, and coordination with regional and provincial partners - Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR). Community preparedness is a shared responsibility, and informed residents play a critical role in strengthening Maple Ridge’s ability to respond and recover from emergencies.

Stay informed and sign up for emergency notifications through the Alert Maple Ridge app at MapleRidge.ca/Alert. For more information on emergency readiness, contact EmergencyProgram@MapleRidge.ca.