Everyone has a role to play when it comes to emergency preparedness. In recognition of Emergency Preparedness Week from May 5-11, the Provincial Government is encouraging residents to take concrete action to be better prepared in the event of an emergency.
An emergency preparedness kit should include food, water, batteries, a portable radio and prescription medications for at least 72 hours. Be Prepared contains information on best practices and tips on preparing emergency kits and plans. More can be found in the backgrounder below.
In September 2023, the Provincial Government added a new tool to enhance public safety during potentially life-threatening events. If a major emergency, such as a forest fire, is deemed imminent, an emergency information webpage will be activated at www.gov.nl.ca. This easy-to-use webpage is mobile-friendly and will act as a single source of information for the public ahead of, during, and after an emergency. The tool is another way to help residents prepare for increasingly common extreme weather and weather-related events.
Information on emergency preparedness for persons with disabilities and their families can be found on the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities NL website and on the Federal Government website Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Disabilities.
Emergency Preparedness Week is recognized across the country with the provinces and territories, as well as Public Safety Canada. The objective is to raise awareness and educate residents on the ways they can prepare for emergency situations.
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“In our province, we know all too well the power of Mother Nature and how important it is to be prepared for an emergency anytime, and anywhere. While we are fortunate to have fantastic emergency responders to help in those situations, I encourage residents to take action and be prepared. ”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General
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BACKGROUNDER
Tips for Preparing an Emergency Kit
In case of an adverse weather event or major emergency or disaster, you will need some basic supplies set aside. You should always be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours to allow emergency workers to focus on those of most urgent need. The kit should include:
- Two litres of drinking water per person per day
- Non-perishable canned and dried foods
- Manual can opener and disposable plates and utensils
- Prescription glasses/contact lenses and supplies
- Prescription medications/medical equipment
- Personal hygiene items
- Extra water for washing (if possible)
- First aid kit
- Battery-operated radio
- Battery-operated flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Phone charger and battery bank
- Cash
- Car and house keys
- Change of clothing and footwear for each person
- Copy of personal documents (identification, insurance and bank account information. This should be stored electronically or placed in a waterproof bag)
- Home emergency plan with contact numbers
- Blanket or sleeping bag for each person
For those with babies, toddlers and children consider:
- Formula
- Diapers
- Bottles
- Wipes
- Games, books, crafts
If you have a pet add:
- Pet food
- Water
- Bowls
- Leash
- Kennel
Emergency kits should be stored in a dry place, in an easy to carry container or backpack, and all family members should know where it is located.
Plan to have your vehicles fueled and to have cash on hand. Gas pumps and bank machines will not work during power outages. Drivers should also consider packing an emergency kit for their vehicle.