If a disaster happened right now, would you be able to take care of yourself for at least 72 hours?
“Albertans should be prepared to take care of themselves for a minimum of 72 hours so emergency workers can focus on those most in need during an emergency,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs Doug Griffiths.
“We can’t predict if the next disaster will be a flood, tornado or wildfire, but there are steps each of us can take to better prepare ourselves and our loved ones.”
Following these four tips will help you and your family be prepared for 72 hours:
Know the risks
Know the risks in your community and the most appropriate way to respond to them. Contact your local municipal office to find out more about your community’s emergency plans and for advice on identifying the risks in your area.
Make a plan
Make a plan for what your family will do, who they will contact and where they will go in the event of an emergency. Practice your emergency plan regularly.
Prepare a kit
Put together a 72-hour kit with enough non-perishable food, water, medication, warm clothing and comfort items for all family members. Similarly, you should make a ready-to-go kit in case you need to evacuate your home quickly and always have an emergency kit in every vehicle used by your family members.
Be informed
Keep yourself informed before and during any emergency by learning where to access local information about your community and emergency officials, tuning in to media and staying connected with your family, friends and neighbours.
Albertans can also subscribe to Alberta Emergency Alert, a public warning service that alerts Albertans to emergencies and disasters. Informational and critical warnings are available for distribution directly to a computer RSS feed, mobile phone, Twitter feed or Facebook page by signing up at www.emergencyalert.alberta.ca.
Emergency preparedness week, May 5 to 11, is an annual cross-country event that encourages all Canadians to prepare for emergencies and disasters. Local events will occur throughout Alberta.
Visit www.aema.alberta.ca for more information
Are there any wells with potable water that are/can be outfitted with a manual pump to supply drinking water? One on each side of the creek would be wise preparation for the community.
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