One of the first things to think about, when you decide you want to be prepared for emergencies, is your region.
- Do you know which natural disasters are most common where you live?
- Have you prepared, in case of these specific disasters?
If you are living in, or are planning an extended stay in, Alberta and the answer to one or both of these questions is “no,” then we’re here to help you out!
Because of Alberta’s dry and flat features, it’s particularly prone to these three natural disasters:
Tornadoes and flash floods especially, can come out of nowhere and give you less than no time to prepare. That’s why it is so crucial to have your emergency gear packed and ready to go, in a backpack that you can grab on your way to safer ground or a designated meeting place. Ideally, you’ll have one of these backpacks stashed in your home, in your vehicle, and maybe even one at work! But one thing at a time, if you need to slow it down.
It’s incredibly simple to get prepared if you buy one of our pre-assembled kits. Of course, it’s always a good idea to go through each item in your backpack or kit, and make sure you know what each one is for, as soon as possible.
Then, if you want to add anything else, you can! Just remember, you want to be able to move quickly with the backpack, so only pack necessities. Some personal items that could be highly useful are:
- a cell phone, fully charged (make sure it’s turned off. Even without a plan, it can call 911)
- a map of the area
- contact numbers
- your medical information. If the backpack is for you and your spouse, and/or your kids, then it’s best to include all of your documentation, ideally in a ziploc bag.
Once you’re packed and ready to go, it’s time to research and communicate. Read up on your government or local area emergency management plans, and communicate with your loved ones about what to do in case of emergency. Thinking ahead could save your life!
Article contributed by Sophie Wooding – Avid gardener and cyclist in Victoria, BC and Content Writer for Frontier.io