Emergency Preparedness Week in Canada starts on Sunday.
The provincial theme this year is “Plan for Every Season” and Huron Perth Public Health is reminding residents that everyone has a role to play in preparing for emergencies.
Senior public health inspector at Huron Perth Public Health, Dale Lyttle, explained the importance of being prepared.
“Emergency preparedness week is a national event that educates communities across the province about actions people can take to prepare for emergency situations.”
Lyttle said emergencies often come with little warning, and it doesn’t give a lot time for people to prepare for the moment.
“But ensuring you and your family are prepared for emergencies situations throughout the year, can help lessen the impact and the stress of these events.”
It’s important to know the risks and types of emergencies, including extreme heat and cold, air quality concerns such as wildfire smoke, floods, severe storms, tornadoes, and infectious disease.
Pubic health encourages thinking about the unique needs of your household, such as young children, older adults, individuals with medical conditions and any pets.
You should also have an emergency kit with basic supplies, including bottled water, non-perishable food, hygiene items, a flashlight, radio, first aid kit, and cash.
Lyttle said people should be prepared to take care of themselves and their family for at least 72 hours.
Visit getprepared.gc.ca or ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.Â
