The Canadian Government is running a campaign on T.V. about being prepared for a disaster. I would be willing to bet none of us are prepared if something were to happen and we had to leave our homes quickly.
Just because it hasn’t happened, doesn’t mean it won’t.
Their site getprepared.ca outlines some great information on things we should have ready in case of an emergency.
Basic kit
You may have some of these items already, such as a flashlight, battery-operated radio, food, water and blankets. The key is to make sure they are organized and easy to find. Would you be able to find your flashlight in the dark?
Make sure your kit is easy to carry. Keep it in a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase with wheels, in an easy-to-reach, accessible place, such as your front hall closet. Make sure everyone in the household knows where to find the emergency kit.
Print this page and check off the items as you accumulate them.
Basic Items You Will Need To Survive For 72hrs:
- Water – at least two litres of water per person per day (Include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order)
- Food that won’t spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (remember to replace the food and water once a year)
- Manual can opener
- Flashlight and batteries
- Candles and matches or lighter (remember to place candles in sturdy containers and to put them out before going to sleep)
- Battery-powered or wind-up radio (and extra batteries)
- First aid kit
- Special items such as prescription medications, infant formula and equipment for people with disabilities
- Extra keys for your car and house
- Some cash in smaller bills, such as $10 bills (travellers cheques are also useful) and change for payphones
- A copy of your emergency plan including contact information
Recommended additional kit supplies
- It is always a good idea to have extra supplies on hand. Here are some recommendations:
- A change of clothing and footwear for each household member
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each household member
- A whistle (in case you need to attract attention)
- Garbage bags for personal sanitation
- Toilet paper and other personal care supplies
- Safety gloves
- Basic tools (hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, fasteners, work gloves)
- Small fuel-driven stove and fuel (follow manufacturer’s directions and store properly)
- Two additional litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning
I think this is a great campaign. This list can work for anyone in any situation. Even if you have to put the kit together and never use it – at least it was ready if something happened!!
