Emergency Planning
EMERGENCY PLANNING IS YOUR FAMILY PREPARED?
MAKE A PLAN - PREPARE A KIT
You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours. If a disaster happens in your community, it may take emergency workers some time to get to you as they help those in desperate need. By taking a few simple steps you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies - anytime, anywhere. Use this guide to create your own emergency plan. Use the checklists to build a 72 hour emergency kit. These basic steps will help you to take care of yourself and your loved ones during an emergency.
KNOW THE RISKS - KNOW YOUR REGION
Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to your region can hep you prepare yourself better. Across Canada we face a number of hazards, from earthquakes in BC to blizzards in Nunavut, to hurricanes in New Brunswick. In addition to natural disasters there are other types of risks such as blackouts, industrial or transportation accidents, and the possibility of acts of terrorism on Canadian soil.
The following list contains natural risks and other hazards. Make note of the risks that are most likely in your community.
| Blackout | Blizzard | Drought |
| Earthquake | Flood | Hazardous Materials and Spills |
| Hurricane | Hurricane | Industrial accident Infectious disease outbreak |
| Landslide or avalanche | Storm | Terrorism |
| Tornado | Transportation accident | Tsunami or Storm Surge |
| Wildfire | Sever Weather (Heat / Cold) | Other |
The Provincial Emergency Program website provides some important information for those returning to their homes after an evacuation. One Step at a Time - A guide to Disaster Recovery
Interior Health also provides some useful information for residents returning to their homes. It deals with exposure to smoke from forest fires, food safety, water quality and septic tanks and disposal fields: Forest Fire Resources, Information Package for Evacuees.