Wednesday, May 2, 2018

How to Stay Safe in an Emergency

(NC) Across Canada, we face a number of hazards such as floods, power outages and industrial or transportation accidents. Learn how quick and easy it is to become better prepared and stay safe throughout a range of emergencies — anytime, anywhere.

Know the risks. Although the consequences of various disasters can be similar, knowing the risks in your region can help you better prepare. For example, you can encounter earthquakes in British Columbia, blizzards in Nunavut and tornadoes in Ontario. Check out the Canadian Disaster Database or Public Safety Canada to see which risks are relevant to your community.

Prepare your home. Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector, smoke alarm, fire extinguisher and well-stocked first aid kit. If you live in an apartment, know where the fire alarms and at least two emergency exits are located. Older children and adults should know how to turn off your home's water, electricity and gas. Make large, easy-to-see signs for water and gas shut-offs as well as for the electrical panel.

Make a plan. Every household needs an emergency plan. It will help you and your family know what to do in case of an emergency and only takes about 20 minutes to make. Your family may not be together when an emergency occurs, so discuss how to meet or contact each other if you're apart when disaster strikes. Develop a plan for different situations, like if you're at work or the kids are at school.

Get an emergency kit. If an emergency happens, it may take emergency workers some time to reach you and you may lose power or tap water. You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours. Keep your kit organized and easy to find. Stock it with essentials like water, food that won't spoil, a flashlight, batteries, some cash in small bills and prescription medications.

Find more information at www.getprepared.ca.


www.newscanada.com

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