Home Emergency Preparedness Plan
News of emergencies and natural disasters strikes fear into the hearts of many, and while incidents like the earthquakes in Japan and the floods in Manitoba and Quebec fill the hearts of citizens with fear and sympathy for the victims, many do not use this as a driving force to prepare themselves and their families for emergencies. Unfortunately, the news of emergencies that occur throughout the world and in our own country never ceases, but despite this people often grow lax, and are lulled into a false sense of security which prevents them from taking appropriate measures to withstand a disaster, and cope with the after-effects.
The second largest country in the world in terms of land mass (9,984,670 square kilometres), Canada is remarkably vast, and in addition, it is also a very diverse country. This means that every region in the country has its own unique risks, and specific potential emergencies and disasters. Owing to this, there is no one set of precautions that can apply to Canada as a whole. However, while every region might have its own unique problems, there are some general guidelines that have been outlined by the Government of Canada, as recommendations for citizens in any part of the country to prepare themselves in case of an emergency.
Know your risks
Begin by educating yourself and your family in regards to all the emergencies that can occur in the area where you live. Look for ways in which you can mitigate any damage that might be done to your home as a result of these emergencies. If possible, fortify your house, and make sure you speak to an insurance broker, so you can determine what you are and aren’t covered for in case of an emergency.
Make an emergency plan
The worst thing that you can do in the face of an emergency is panic, and this normally happens because the situation is unanticipated and no one has any idea what to do. To avoid this, it is essential to chalk out an emergency plan well in time, and make sure you and your entire family are aware of it. Outline where the entire family will be required to meet up and what course of action will be taken if an emergency does occurs.
Get an emergency kit
Prepare an emergency kit so you can ensure the well-being of yourself and your family in case of an emergency. Pack a large, secure, waterproof box with essential items like stocks of bottled water and non-perishable food. Pack medical supplies, in case you need to tend to any wounds or injuries, and make sure you include items like a wind-up radio, flashlights, and extra batteries. Ideally, you should have enough supplies to survive for 72 hours or more, before a rescue team can find you.
