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Welcome to the 13 week emergency preparation challenge!

We have all become used to seeing worldwide disasters daily in the news: from mudslides to wildfires, single homes affected to entire cities. How people make out in the wake of a disaster really depends on how well prepared they are.

We have all become used to seeing worldwide disasters daily in the news: from mudslides to wildfires, single homes affected to entire cities.  How people make out in the wake of a disaster really depends on how well prepared they are.
Of course, we all like to think we are safe from such disasters, but we could all be safer if we went out of our way to prepare, just in case. Putting a few simple items together in preparation can mean the difference between life and death, and a simple power outage can serve as an effective reminder of the importance of such simple things as replacing the candles you used up at your last dinner party.
Well, your local emergency planning coordinator is here to help you get started with the thirteen week challenge!! Some people are doing 100 day handstands, but I am challenging you to be prepared, not scared.!!
Firstly, a few things to think about, the beginnings of “having a plan”:
1. Think about a family emergency meeting place. If a disaster occurs during the day or on the weekend, it is unlikely all family members will be at home. Involve everyone in choosing a family emergency meeting place and a way of contacting each other. Make sure the emergency meeting location is central to the places individual family members visit most frequently. You should also decide on a system of communication in case all family members can’t get to the meeting place. Designate an out of province contact your family members can check in with if regular communication and transportation systems are disrupted. Participate in regular family drills and make sure every family member is part of the planning process. Update your plans regularly as circumstances change. Always consider those with different abilities or extra needs. Texting has been touted as the way to go in an emergency.  If you have seen the movie or read the book the Wave, you can truly understand the importance of having that person that everyone checks in with.
2. Be sure each family member carries personal identification. This identification could be a wallet card , clothing label, or ID bracelet with name, address, and phone number. Health problems, such as diabetes, or heart conditions should be noted, as well as any allergies to medications. Imagine if someone is unconscious, how much quicker they would be able to be helped and family informed with this simple step?
Also, keep copies of important personal papers including home insurance, wills, identification, credit card numbers and records of passwords in a fireproof, water proof container.
And now for this week’s challenge: Get a large portable container, with a lid, to use as an emergency kit. A plastic storage bin or garbage can works well, alternatively a carry all, or back packs to make them easier to carry. This part is up to you. Choose an accessible location for the container near an exit, and label the container. Make sure everyone knows about the secret spot, and what it will be used for.
Now stock this kit with at least a three-day supply of water for every family member including your pets, or visiting in-laws. It is best to plan for four litres per person, per day. Two for drinking and two for food prep and hygiene. You might also consider the addition of water purification tablets.
Together we can all become personally prepared, and this week’s challenge alone is a great start. See you next week with the next exciting addition to pop in your bag!!