Emergency Preparedness Week is a national awareness initiative that has taken place annually since 1996. This year the initiative runs from May 5th to May 11th and is an opportunity for your family to plan and be prepared for an emergency.
Being prepared means being ready to cope for at least 72 hours of an emergency. There are many things that you can do to prepare your family such as:
1. Know the risks – Know the risks in the region that you live in including possible natural disasters such as tornadoes, flooding or forest fires. In addition to natural disasters, there are other risks such as power outages.
2. Make a Family Emergency Plan – Have an emergency plan so that every member of your family will know what to do and how to contact each other in an emergency situation.
3. Get an Emergency Kit – An emergency kit will contain basic supplies you will need to get by without power or tap water. This should include items such as food, water, cash, a first aid kit and a battery operated flashlight.
4. Talk to your Kids – Help your kids understand emergencies and what they can expect or do to prepare. Make sure they know where the emergency kit is.
5. Spread the Word – Share information with your family, friends and workplace so they too can be prepared in the case of an emergency.
For more information visit www.GetPrepared.ca to ensure your family is prepared for an emergency.
