Emergency Response Plans
Emergencies such as fires, floods, and severe weather can have significant consequences for condominium corporations. A well-prepared Emergency Response Plan (ERP) ensures the safety of residents, minimizes property damage, and ensures compliance with Alberta’s condominium legislation.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Legislative Framework for Emergency Management
Role of the Condominium Manager in Emergency Preparedness
Steps to Create an Emergency Response Plan
Interactive Scenario: Creating an Emergency Response Plan
Legislative Framework for Emergency Management
Responsibilities of the Condominium Corporation
Under Alberta law, the condominium corporation is responsible for maintaining and protecting common property. This includes preparing for emergencies that could damage property or endanger residents.
Duty to Maintain Common Property:
The corporation shall ensure that the common property is properly maintained and repaired as necessary.
Insurance Requirements:
The corporation must maintain insurance for damage to the common property caused by perils such as fire, flood, and other risks specified in the regulations.
Role of the Condominium Manager in Emergency Preparedness
The condominium manager acts on behalf of the board to coordinate emergency planning and response efforts, including:
Developing and implementing an Emergency Response Plan.
Communicating the plan to owners and residents.
Coordinating with emergency services and contractors during incidents.
Steps to Create an Emergency Response Plan
Step 1: Assess Risks and Hazards
Identify Potential Risks:
Common risks include:
Fire (e.g., kitchen fires, electrical fires).
Flood (e.g., burst pipes, severe storms).
Security risks (e.g., unauthorized access or vandalism).
Conduct a Property Inspection:
Evaluate the condition of common property (e.g., fire alarms, sprinkler systems, flood drainage) to identify vulnerabilities.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and insurance requirements.
Prioritize Risks:
Rank risks based on their likelihood and potential impact.
Step 2: Develop Emergency Procedures
Establish Protocols for Key Emergencies:
Fire:
Evacuation routes.
Locations of fire extinguishers and alarms.
Flood:
Water shutoff locations.
Procedures for contacting restoration contractors.
Severe Weather:
Designated shelter areas.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Condominium Manager: Coordinates emergency response and acts as the point of contact.
Board Members: Oversee implementation and communication of the plan.
Residents: Follow evacuation or safety instructions.
Emergency Contacts:
Maintain a list of essential contacts, including:
Emergency services (fire, police, ambulance).
Contractors (e.g., plumbers, electricians, restoration specialists).
Insurance providers.
Step 3: Communicate the Plan
Distribute the Emergency Response Plan:
Provide a copy to all owners and tenants.
Include key elements such as evacuation maps and emergency contact numbers.
Conduct Regular Drills:
Schedule fire drills and other emergency practice sessions to familiarize residents with the plan.
Post Emergency Information:
Display key information (e.g., evacuation maps, fire safety instructions) in common areas.
Step 4: Review and Update the Plan
Annual Review:
Update the plan annually to reflect changes in the property, resident demographics, or regulations.
Post-Incident Review:
After an emergency, evaluate the effectiveness of the plan and make necessary adjustments.
Interactive Scenario
Creating an Emergency Response Plan
Scenario:
You are the condominium manager for a building with 50 units. The board has requested that you create an Emergency Response Plan, as the property is located in an area prone to flooding.
Task:
Using the steps outlined above, create an Emergency Response Plan for this building. Your plan should include:
A risk assessment for flood-related emergencies.
Procedures for evacuating residents and mitigating flood damage.
A communication plan for informing residents and coordinating with emergency services.
