ST. PAUL — Gov. Mark Dayton has signed a compact that will allow Minnesota and some Canadian provinces to request and provide mutual aid to each other in the event of emergencies.

The state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management said that while states and provinces can handle most emergencies, there are times when disasters require more resources. The compact makes it easier, and in some cases less expensive, to get aid when needed.

The compact covers natural disasters from floods and tornadoes to emergencies such as chemical spills or terrorist events.

Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Montana, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin are also joining the compact, along with the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan.

There are similar cross-border agreements on the east and west coasts.