Be prepared for disasters

Submitted by
Ken Boshcoff M.P.

In recent years, we have witnessed both natural and human caused disasters. We have watched news coverage of affected families living on their roof tops to avoid flood waters or hiding in basements during horrendous wind storms. With these images fresh in our minds, we must look at our own preparedness for a disaster to strike.
If a disaster were to happen in your community, you should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours – this time frame recognizes the challenges faced by emergency workers in such a situation. It allows our emergency services to help those in desperate need first, such as seniors or those in ill health. By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face your own range of emergencies.
STEP ONE: MAKE A PLAN
Every Canadian household needs an emergency plan that will help you and your family members know what to do in case of an emergency. It is important to remember that your family might not be together when a disaster occurs. Plan how to meet or contact each other in different situations. A very helpful website to assist you in developing your family plan is: www.getprepared.ca
STEP TWO: PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT
In an emergency you will need some basic supplies. You may need to get by without power or tap water and must be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. You may already have some items you will need – the key is to make sure they are organized and easy to find.
A Basic Emergency Kit should contain:
•Water – at least two litres per person per day. Include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order.
•Food that won’t spoil, such as canned items, energy bars and dried foods.
•Manual can-opener.
•Flashlight and batteries.
•Candles and matches or a lighter.
•Battery powered or wind-up radio.
•First aid kit.
•Special items you may require such as prescription medication, infant formula or equipment for people with disabilities.
•Extra keys for your car and house.
•Cash in small bills and change for payphones.
You may also want to include the following additional items:
•Change of clothing and footwear for each family member.
•Sleeping bags or warm blankets.
•A whistle (in case you need to attract attention).
•Garbage bags for personal sanitation
•Toilet paper and other personal care supplies
•Safety gloves
•Basic tools (hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers)
•Small fuel-powered stove and fuel
•Two litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning.
Many pre-packaged emergency kits are available at national retailers such as Zellers or Canadian Tire and may also be obtained at a locally owned retailer.
Don’t wait for an emergency to happen – prepare yourself and your loved ones today. Learn more about emergency preparedness at www.getprepared.ca