Let's Talk Emergency Preparedness

August 2, 2024
Category: Uncategorized

With the wildfire crisis happening right now in western Canada, we’re reminded in Nova Scotia of the wildfires that ravaged several parts of our province in 2023. We thought it would be a relevant time to talk about preparedness for your family. We’re not talking insurance, we’re talking about the boots to the ground, how do we react to keep our family safe during a disaster.

Natural disasters, such as wildfires, are becoming increasingly common, and ensuring your family’s safety during such emergencies is crucial. Being prepared with a well-thought-out evacuation plan can make all the difference. In this article we want to try to help you develop an effective evacuation process, highlighting the essential items to grab in a hurry and additional items to consider if you have more time.

The Importance of an Evacuation Plan

Creating an evacuation plan is a proactive measure to protect your family during emergencies. Knowing exactly what to do and where to go can reduce panic and confusion, making the evacuation process smoother and faster. It’s inevitable that you’ll be experiencing panic and anxiety, being prepared will a part of the situation that you can hang on to that eases your stress.

Preparing an Evacuation Plan

Assess Potential Risks: The first thing you need to do is understand the types of emergencies that could affect your area, such as wildfires, floods, or hurricanes. We’re not asking you to take extreme measures, just prepare for any disaster that might have a higher likelihood in your area.

Designate Meeting Points: If you are a part of a larger family or have older kids, it’s important to choose safe locations both inside and outside your immediate neighborhood where your family can reunite if separated.

Create an Emergency Contact List: Include phone numbers for family members, friends, and emergency services. Ensure everyone has a copy of this list. Ensure there is a physical copy on you or an image on your phone.

Review Evacuation Plan: Review your evacuation plan with all family members to ensure everyone knows their role and route every once in awhile – we suggest at least annually.

Less Than 60 Minutes

Personal Safety Items:
- Face masks or coverings to filter smoke
- Fire extinguisher if accessible
Important Documents:
- IDs (driver’s license, passport)
- Financial documents (credit/debit cards, cash)
- Insurance documents (home, health, vehicle)
Essential Electronics:
- Cell phone and charger
- Laptop/tablet and charger
- Any external hard drives or USBs with important data
Basic Necessities:
- Medications and medical supplies
- First aid kit
- Water and snacks
Personal Items:
- A change of clothes
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Glasses or contact lenses and solution
Pets:
- Pet carrier, leash, and essential supplies (food, water, medications)

One to Two Hours

In addition to the items listed above:

Additional Personal Items:
- More clothing (for a few days)
- Blankets and pillows
- Towels
Valuables and Keepsakes:
- Irreplaceable items (photo albums, jewelry, heirlooms)
Food and Supplies:
- Non-perishable food items
- Extra water bottles
- Camping gear (if accessible and useful)
Extra Electronics:
- Backup batteries
- Portable power bank
Important Documents:
- Birth certificates
- Social security cards
- Property deeds
Pet Supplies:
- More pet food and water
- Pet bedding and toys

6+ Hours