Emergency Preparedness for Families and Individuals
Make a Plan
Emergencies can strike with very little warning, leaving you with no time to make plans about where to go and what to do.
Challenges you might face in an emergency:
- You might not have the opportunity to gather resources that you need
- Family members may be in different locations when the event occurs
- Communication networks can break down
- It is possible that electricity, water or gas service to your home will be disrupted
- Roads could be blocked or closed
- Regular sources of food, water and gasoline might not be available
Residents have a key role to play in responding to emergencies. Make plans to be able to take care of yourself and the members of your household for a minimum of three days.
Being prepared ahead of time will help you and your family cope with an emergency more effectively and enable you to make a faster recovery.
Emergencies can be particularly stressful for children, seniors and individuals with disabilities or special needs. They may feel especially vulnerable if they rely on caregivers for assistance, but are separated from them when the incident occurs. If your household includes a person who requires extra help or has special needs, be sure to include provisions for them in your plan.
Prepare a Kit
Make preparations before an emergency to be self-sufficient for a minimum of three days. This allows emergency workers to focus on people who require urgent assistance. Assemble an emergency kit that contains items to help you cope for a minimum of three days during an emergency. Store the items in backpacks, duffel bags or luggage so you can easily take the kit with you in case you need to evacuate. Keep it in a cool, dry area of your home. Ensure that every household member knows where the emergency kit is located. You should prepare a:
- Household Emergency Kit
- Vehicle Emergency Kit (if required)
- Pet Emergency Kit (if required)
Check your kits at least once each year. A good time to inspect it is during Emergency Preparedness Week. Check that all items are in working order and use your checklist to ensure that your kit is still complete. Replace food, water and batteries in your kit at this time.
72 Hour Emergency Kit Information & List
Severe Weather Warnings
To get prepared for a storm, you should know the risks specific to your community and your region to help you better prepare. To find out what the hazards are in your region, visit the “Know the risks” section of www.getprepared.ca.
Visit weather.gc.ca to access weather information across the country. To sign up for Environment Canada weather alerts visit EC Alert me.
What is the difference between a weather watch and a warning?