This week is Emergency Preparedness Week.
Public Safety Canada along with provincial, municipal, first nations, and non-government emergency management organizations are taking part to promote the importance of being ready in the event of a natural disaster, severe weather, or even a pandemic.
OPP Inspector Krista Miller says families in particular need to talk about putting together a plan.
Miller says the plan should also include a kit containing essential needs that will last for a minimum of 72 hours.
The emergency kit should include the following:
- Non-perishable food and manual can opener (3-day supply);
- Bottled water (4 liters per person per day);
- Medication(s);
- Radio;
- Extra batteries;
- First aid kit;
- Candles with matches/lighter;
- Hand sanitizer;
- Items for babies/small children;
- Pet food/pet supplies;
- Any items specific to your family’s needs;
- Clothes and shoes;
- Sleeping bags and blankets;
- Toiletries;
- Playing cards and activities; and,
- Phone charger.
An emergency plan has the following:
- Communications plan. The local network could be affected, so ensure you have alternate methods (text message, social media) identified for your contacts;
- Evacuation plan. Identify meeting places near your home and outside your neighborhood along with the evacuation routes;
- Emergency numbers list. Include police, fire, family doctor, Telehealth, Poison control, Friends/Family that can lend a hand, Insurance contact and Utility companies;
- Utility Shut-off Procedure. Water valve, electrical panel, gas valve; and,
- Special needs. You kit should provide for medical needs. Medical condition, medical history, health-care contacts, extra medications/supplies
They say knowing the risks specific to your community/region will help you better prepare for a man-made or natural disaster. For instance, the issues that northern communities may be different than Milton residents face.
Anyone interested in more information on Emergency Preparedness should click here.
