In light of Emergency Preparedness week (May 5th - May 11th), I thought it was appropriate to share some information about being prepared incase of an emergency. Since 1996 EP week has been encouraging Canadians to take these few steps to better prepare themselves in case of an emergency:
- Knowledge of risks in your community. In BC, risks include: severe storms, earthquakes, landslides, floods, pandemics, riots (only when the Canucks make it to the playoffs :P), etc.
- Develop a family emergency plan. Having an emergency plan in place will help to reduce stress and anxiety during and after an emergency situation. Your family emergency plan should include:
- A meeting place. At the time of a disaster your family may not be together so it is important to choose a meeting place. Choose a place that is easily accessible, preferably by foot and in an open area (bridges may be out and roads may be blocked).
- An "out of area" emergency contact. After an earthquake or disaster, phone services may be limited. Arrange to have someone out of area (away from BC or US coastline) to be your family contact. Your out of area contact should have voicemail or an answering machine. Keep calls short and if possible, arrange a specific time to call back and check in.
- Prepare emergency kits for you home, vehicle and work. Organize enough supplies to sustain you and your family for 72hrs. Include: Water, food, battery operated radio, flashlights, first aid kit, cash, medications, etc.
- 4 liters of water per person per day - 2 for drinking, 2 for food prep and hygiene
- Stock your kit with a variety of packaged food, canned good and dried foods. If needed, include a manual can opener.
- extra batteries for flashlights and radio
- If needed, include supplies for infants and pets. Diapers, formula, food and water for your pet.
- Extra clothing, blankets and personal items such as toilet paper, Handy wipes, soap, toothbrush, etc.
- Important documents: Wills, insurance papers, medical records, credit card numbers, identification, etc.
- Pocket knife, cutlery, dishes, spare set of house and car keys, books, toys, family photo album, etc.
For more information, please visit these websites for great advice on how to be better prepared:
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