Too many times we tell ourselves that we will put together an emergency kit and lay out details of an emergency plan but we never seem to find the time to get around to it.
The recent wind and rainstorms serve as reminders that Mother Nature can surprise us at anytime.
November is a good month to begin planning for the next year and make time to actually sit down and begin assembling an emergency plan.
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada has information on the website publicsafety.gc.ca that will help you prepare and get started on your emergency plan for your family.
The best way to begin is to download Your Emergency Preparedness Guide. You will find this by going to "How Do I . . . Prepare An Emergency Kit?" on the home page then clicking on "Your Emergency Plan." This 16-page guide outlines the three major steps you need to take in order to properly prepare your family for a disaster. PSEPC recommends visiting this site and taking the necessary steps outlined in the guide.
PSEPC believes that you should be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in the case of an emergency. In a nutshell, there are three major steps to take.
The first is to know your risks in your community. Every community has its own hazards and risks and it's up to you to investigate your specific surroundings.
Step 2 is to make a home plan. Are you prepared for an emergency?
There is a good chance that your family will be separated at the time so you must ensure that you can reach them in an emergency situation. Everyone in the home should know where the emergency contact information is kept and escape routes should be discussed with appropriate emergency exits determined. Keep extra medications on hand for persons with special health needs.
The last step is to have an emergency kit on hand. Basic items such as food, water and a battery-operated flashlight are critical items to keep in a well-known location. Everyone in the household should know where these items are. A backpack or duffle bag is ideal for packing your emergency kit.
Check the PSEPC website for a printable list of emergency kit items.
If you take the time to follow the three important steps you will probably sleep better knowing you are prepared in the unfortunate situation of an unexpected emergency.
