Winter Emergency Planning: Be Ready

Winter is here and that means it’s time to bundle up and prepare for what’s headed our way. While the weather may be beyond our control, preparing for it is not. It’s not just optional, but critical to be ready in the case of a weather emergency.
 
 When preparing for an emergency, there are three easy steps:  know the risks, make a plan, and build an emergency kit.
 
Know the risks: Weather conditions in the winter can be severe and change quickly. Storms can be sudden, last for days, and lead to flooding, power outages, and extensive property damage. It’s important to monitor local weather alerts. The difference between a storm warning and a storm watch can determine your plans and inform your risks:

• Storm Warning: a severe storm is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. Evacuate if advised to do so.
• Storm Watch: a storm is possible in your area. Stay alert for more information.

Make a plan: It’s important to work with family members to make sure everyone is prepared in the event of a weather emergency. Meet with everyone and discuss plans for responding in the case of a storm or other emergencies. Make sure everyone knows where to find your emergency kit (see more information below) which includes a supply of water.
 
Build an emergency kit: The Canadian Red Cross recommends that people should prepare to be self-sustaining for up to 72 hours in their homes in the case of an  emergency. This allows emergency crews to help individuals and areas at highest risk of damage from severe weather.
 
An emergency kit is an important part of preparedness planning. Kits should include practical items such as drinking water, food, cash, and a portable radio, and be stored in a place that is accessible and communicated to the whole family. Other items to consider packing in an emergency kit include:

• Flashlights

• Extra batteries
• Baby items (baby formula, diapers)
• Medical prescriptions
• Non-perishable food (Remember to include a manual can opener)
• Pet Food
• Personal identification items

A complete list of items to include in an emergency kit and more preparedness tips can be found at www.redcross.ca/beready.