Emergency Preparedness Week: “Be Ready for Anything”

North Bay, ON – April 28, 2022 - Across Canada, Emergency Preparedness Week (May 1-7, 2022) asks Canadians to “Be Ready for Anything!” and take action to prepare for unexpected emergencies.

Extreme weather, flooding and wildfire are prime examples of hazards becoming more common which can severely impact communities.  Natural disasters may be beyond our control, but there are ways to reduce the risk and the impact of whatever emergency we might face - whether natural or human-induced.

Emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime and during these events, response agencies such as Police, Fire and EMS will focus their efforts first where the need is greatest which is why individual emergency preparedness is so important. The first 72 hours of an emergency are critical and every family should be prepared to be as self-sufficient as possible.

By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies – anywhere, anytime. It is important to:

• Know the risks – Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to our community and our region can help you better Risks such as severe storms causing major power outages, flooding and wildfire are examples.
• Make a plan – In an emergency, your family may not be together when disaster occurs or you may be asked to evacuate your Have a plan including how to communicate and where to meet.
• Prepare a 72 hour emergency kit – During an emergency you will need basic Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. You may have to ‘grab and go’ your emergency kit with little warning if evacuation is required, or shelter in place. Keep in mind, power and tap water may not be available and don’t forget supplies for your pets.
• Stay informed – Listen to local channels for updates. Have a portable radio with extra batteries or a crank radio in your 72 hour emergency kit.

Visit www.getprepared.ca and https://firesmartcanada.ca/ for more resources to help you and your family prepare for all types of emergencies.

This week, we encourage you to take concrete actions to be better prepared. Please do your part! Experience has shown that individual preparedness goes a long way to help people cope better - both during and after a major disaster. Get an emergency kit now - it can make a world of difference.

The 72 Hour Emergency Kit Checklist below outlines the basic items every individual should have:

• Non-perishable food (ready-to-eat items that do not require refrigeration)

• Manual can opener

• Bottled water (4 litres per person per day)
• Flashlight and batteries

• Radio and batteries or crank radio

• Spare batteries (for radio and flashlight)

• First-aid kit

• Candles and matches/lighter

• Extra car keys and cash

• Important papers (identification)

• Clothing and footwear

• Blankets or sleeping bag

• Toilet paper and other personal items

• Medication

• Backpack/duffle bag

• Pet supplies including collar with identification

• Whistle (to attract attention, if needed)

• Playing cards/travel games