OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 09/26/12 -- Candice Bergen, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety, today spoke at the opening of the Canadian Museum of Nature's "Nature Unleashed" exhibit. The exhibit focuses on the science behind four types of disasters: earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes and tornadoes.

"The Nature Unleashed exhibit is a great opportunity for children and adults to experience the power and intensity of these natural disasters - in a safe environment," said Parliamentary Secretary Bergen. "It's also an opportunity to think about the steps we can take to prevent or reduce the impact of disasters on our homes and communities."

The "Nature Unleashed" exhibit features Public Safety Canada's Canadian Disaster Database which contains historical information on disasters that have affected Canadians since 1900. By using this tool, Canadians can learn about risks that have historically affected their region, allowing them to properly prepare for emergencies.

Public Safety Canada is also providing emergency preparedness guides to exhibit visitors. The guides describe how to prepare for a range of emergencies, and how to create an emergency plan and kit that will help people cope for at least the first 72 hours of an emergency. More information available at www.GetPrepared.ca

Natural disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity. Exhibits like Nature Unleashed, incorporating tools such as the Canadian Disaster Database and Get Prepared, raise awareness among Canadians and encourage them to take action to protect themselves, their families, their homes, and their communities.

The Nature Unleashed exhibit will run at the Canadian Museum of Nature from September 28, 2012 - May 5, 2013.

For more information, please visit the website www.publicsafety.gc.ca.

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