Adam Prudhomme
Editor
Emergency Preparedness Week runs May 1-7, once again reminding Canadians to plan ahead and take time now to be ready for any future disasters.
This year’s theme is Be Ready For Anything, which calls on Canadians to consider a wide assortment of risks, particularly those in their region.
“By making a plan and sharing it with everyone in the household we can be better prepared to act,” said Greater Napanee Emergency Services public educator Randy Cook. “Everybody will know what to do and what is expected of them.”
Widespread disasters such as floods, ice storms or a train derailment involving hazardous materials could mean emergency services are forced to prioritize calls for services for those that are most vulnerable. That’s where having any many residents as possible prepared can be a huge benefit. A good plan will address a situation in which there is no access to tap water, heat or phone services.
“By building an emergency kit, we may not have to be dependent on outside sources,” said Cook. “Make sure it fits your own family first. For example, you may have young children or older adults who need a little extra help and more time. There may be items you’ll need to accommodate your pets. Be sure to include emergency contact numbers, medical information and any other important documents.”
Emergency kits should have enough supplies to sustain a family through the first 72 hours of a disaster-bottled water and a charged cellphone can be crucial.
Other advice includes making a plan for different scenarios with family members that include escape routes, where to meet incase separated and how to contact one another. Experts recommend keeping a copy of the plan handy, leaving it in the car or at work.
For more on tips and advice on Emergency Preparedness Week, visit https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/ep-wk/index-en.aspx.