Thursday, April 28, 2016
Perth District Health Unit
Are you prepared? Emergency Preparedness Week reminds us to be ready!
May 1-7, 2016, is Emergency Preparedness Week across Canada and the Health Unit is reminding residents that it's important to be prepared. "Past events like ice storms, flooding and severe weather are reminders that emergencies can strike at any time," says Dale Lyttle, Senior Public Health Inspector. "Preparing for emergency situations will help lessen the impact and stress these events have on us."
Lyttle asks residents to think about how you and your family would manage in an extended power outage, or if there was a flood in your home, or damage to your house and property from a severe storm. Would you be able to get food easily? Would your water supply be interrupted? How would you communicate with family members?
Here are three simple steps to help you better prepare:
- Know the Risks - Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, you can be better prepared if you know what risks your community faces, such as floods, severe weather, power outages, extreme temperatures, and environmental accidents (i.e. chemical spills).
- Make a Plan - Everyone household needs an emergency plan so everyone in your family knows what to do if disaster strikes. Don't forget to include pets and specific information for people with disabilities and special needs. Practice the plan.
- Prepare your Kit - Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. It may take some time for responders to get to you. Basic supplies in the kit should include: a three-day supply of water, food that won't spoil (i.e. canned food, energy bars), can opener, a flashlight, batteries, battery-powered or wind up radio, first aid kit, pocket knife, prescription medications, an extra set of keys, and money.
"Being prepared for these types of emergencies can make a world of difference," says Lyttle.
For more information:
Media Contact:
Rebecca Hill
Communications Manager
519-271-7600 ext 279
rhill@pdhu.on.ca
|