Bruce County is getting set to once again educate residents on being prepared for emergencies during Emergency Preparedness Week.
This year, Emergency Preparedness Week runs May 1st-7th in Bruce County. A release from the county states that "residents and visitors are reminded to be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours. If an emergency happens, it may take emergency workers some time to reach you, so get prepared now to face a range of emergencies anytime and anywhere." Higher risks in Bruce County include severe weather, floods, and power outages. Residents are encouraged to make an emergency plan and have a kit ready in case of an emergency.
An emergency kit should include basic items like food, water, and a battery-operated or crank flashlight. You should have supplies to last at least 3 days. Be sure everyone in your home knows where the emergency kit is and that it is portable and easy to move.
Get Prepared:
- Draw up a floor plan of your home that shows all possible exits from each room. Plan a main exit route and an alternate exit route from each room.
- Identify an evacuation route from your neighbourhood in case you need to leave in a hurry.
- Identify safe places where everyone should meet if you cannot go home or you need to evacuate.
- Make copies of important documents and keep them somewhere safe.
- Ask your children's school or daycare about their emergency policies and procedures.
- Make a plan for your pets in case of evacuation. Keep in mind that not all locations are pet-friendly.
- Make a neighbourhood safety plan and work with your neighbours to identify people who may need extra help during an emergency.