Programs and Services

Emergency Response/Recovery

The department assists, as requested, with the management of an emergency in partnership with local authorities in the affected area. It is also the agency of government that is responsible for dealing with any large scale emergency or disaster occurring in and around the province. Under its legislative framework, the department has the responsibility to coordinate and/or manage an emergency situation; this includes the coordination of multi-disciplinary and multi-jurisdictional emergency response.

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Emergency Planning and Preparedness

Emergency management is a shared responsibility among all levels of government, non-government organizations, emergency management partners, communities and residents. The division assists local governments, emergency responders, provincial government departments, the public, the private sector and non-governmental organizations in raising the collective capacity of emergency preparedness so that all types of emergencies can be met with a prompt and effective response. This is achieved through emergency preparedness activities, developing and maintaining emergency management plans and policies, and participating in emergency exercises. It should be noted that all towns and local service districts are required by legislation to have an updated emergency management plan in place. The division works closely with municipalities, local service districts, or regional committees to provide support and guidance in the development of emergency management plans.

For assistance or inquiries about emergency management plans, please contact the division at ESD-NL@gov.nl.ca or (709) 729-1608.

Emergency Preparedness Week 2025 

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Emergency Air Services / Authorization of Aircraft Services

The division is responsible for assisting provincial police services (RNC and RCMP) in search and rescue activities. This service is in the form of authorizing air services support for lost and missing persons. These air services are also utilized by the division during emergency response/recovery activities requiring air support.

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On-Call Emergency Services

For Local Governments and Emergency Management Partners:
The division operates a 24/7 on-call service to respond to after-hours emergencies in the province. This service is intended to provide assistance to local governments and emergency management partners experiencing an emergency event or crisis that requires the attention or assistance from the provincial government.

For the General Public:
Any individual experiencing a medical emergency should go the nearest emergency department or contact 911. To find an emergency department near you, please visit: https://nlhealthservices.ca/emergency/

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Newfoundland and Labrador Disaster Financial Assistance Program (NL-DFAP)

The department is responsible for the administration of the federal government’s Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) when the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador authorizes a provincial disaster financial assistance program (NL-DFAP) in response to a specific emergency or adverse weather event. This program provides financial assistance related to disaster recovery in accordance with the federal DFAA guidelines for eligible events.

Information for specific events can be found here: The Newfoundland and Labrador Disaster Financial Assistance Program (NL-DFAP) – Justice and Public Safety

Residents can gain information and applications for the NL-DFAP by emailing NL-DFAP@gov.nl.ca, or by telephone at 1-888-395-5611.

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Provincial Emergency Operations Center

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador operates a Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) to coordinate the provincial response to emergencies and disasters that occur within the province. The PEOC is a physical facility designated for the gathering, analysis, and dissemination of emergency information and facilitates centralized communication and interagency/interdepartmental coordination. The PEOC is managed by the Emergency Services Division and enables government departments and emergency management partners to coordinate response and recovery efforts associated with emergencies or disasters that may impact the province.

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