February 10, 2023 – Ottawa, ON: The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) is saddened to hear about the loss of life and devastation caused by two powerful earthquakes which affected Türkiye and Syria on February 6, 2023. With a magnitude of 7.8, the first earthquake was the most powerful recorded in Türkiye since 1939.
CDA expresses its sincere sympathies to survivors and those affected across the regions. Governments and organizations have pledged their support and are calling on others to provide any support to help affected communities rebuild once the response phase is over.
The Government of Canada announced that it will match donations to the Canadian Red Cross Earthquake in Türkiye and Syria Appeal. Every donation made by individuals to the Canadian Red Cross between February 6-22, 2023, will be matched, up to a maximum of $10 million. Once the matching period ends, the Canadian Red Cross will allocate the total amount of funding to support the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in its response to the humanitarian needs caused by the earthquakes. These critical funds will allow the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to support immediate and ongoing humanitarian efforts.
CDA acknowledges that these difficult and stressful times are impacting not only those with Turkish and Syrian roots here in Canada, but also friends, family and partners in health care such as the Canadian and global dental profession and many others.
For those that would like to help, below are links to areas of need for donations. The list also includes supports to help people cope with the crisis or mitigate any internet security risks.
CDA reminds dentists and dental office staff to please be on high alert for possible internet security risks and phishing scams. During times of global crisis and emergency, cybercriminals especially like to exploit the accompanying chaos, stress and grief that difficult situations may bring, preying on individuals’ heightened vulnerability. There are several things dental professionals can do to protect against online risks. For more information on what you can do to protect yourself and your patients’ personal health information, please see Internet Security Tips for Dental Offices below.
Helpful Links:
Financial Donations:
Canadian Red Cross: Donate to the Earthquake in Türkiye and Syria Appeal
Mental Health and Wellness:
Wellness Together Canada:
Mental Health and Substance Use Support
Free and virtual, 24/7
For Dentists and Dental Offices:
Mental Health and Wellness Supports
CDSPI Members’ Assistance Program (MAP):
Phone: +1 844-578-4040
Website: https://www.cdspi.com/members-assistance-program/
LifeWorks 24/7 Crisis Support Line: +1 844-751-2133
Internet Security Tips for Dental Offices
Tips to Spot Phishing
Travel Advisories:
Government of Canada: Syria travel advice
Last updated: February 10, 2023
