Overview

Ontario Corps unites Ontarians with one singular mission: to stand together, as one team, in times of crisis to protect Ontario. Whether it’s a severe storm, flood, wildfire, or other emergency – we want to make sure our province is ready.

When emergencies or natural disasters happen, emergency response must occur as quickly as possible. A strong network of volunteers and partners across the province can be mobilized to supplement local response efforts ensuring that every community receives the help it needs.

Volunteers can be trained to perform a variety of duties, including sandbagging, debris removal, serving meals and more. Volunteers are contacted when needed to support emergency response efforts and will be assigned duties based on their skill level, interest and availability.

Ontario is creating a culture of readiness that empowers volunteers and communities to ensure we are better prepared to respond when the next emergency happens.

Become a volunteer

As an Ontario Corps volunteer, you play a critical role helping communities impacted by emergencies.

Responsibilities may include:

  • welcoming people to emergency shelters
  • stocking emergency supplies
  • transporting equipment
  • cleaning up debris
  • food services

Eligibility

People from all backgrounds and experience levels are welcome to join Ontario Corps.

You are eligible if you are:

  • a resident of Ontario
  • 16 years or older
  • willing to complete a criminal record check, provided for free
  • willing to complete online training, provided for free

How to register 

To register to volunteer, you must:

  1. Create an account on the volunteer registration portal.
  2. Complete your profile by providing your information.
  3. Complete the criminal record check.
  4. Complete the online training modules.

Once your account is set up, you can change your preferences at any time. If you wish to deactivate your account, email EMOPreparednessPrograms@ontario.ca.

How it works

All Ontario Corps volunteers are registered on the volunteer registration portal.

The portal allows authorized partners to search the database and view a volunteer’s profile.

Volunteers are contacted as needed to support emergency response efforts.

Ontario Corps partners

Get help during an emergency

If your community needs provincial assistance during an emergency, your municipality will contact Emergency Management Ontario by way of the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre.

Our emergency officers will assess the situation and determine the best support for the community — whether that is deploying Ontario Corps, equipment, regional field services staff and/or other resources.

Municipalities do not need an emergency declaration to receive assistance.

Contact us

Only municipalities should contact EMO for emergency support. If you have general questions about emergency management in Ontario, contact us:

EMOPreparednessPrograms@ontario.ca