Extreme weather events such as floods and wildfires are becoming more frequent across Canada. While we can’t prevent these emergencies, we can take steps to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities by being prepared before disaster strikes.
Build an Emergency Kit
Every household should have an emergency kit that can support everyone for at least 72 hours. Your kit should include:
• Drinking water (at least two litres per person, per day).
• Non-perishable food.
• Flashlights and extra batteries.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
• First aid kit and prescription medications.
• Cell phone charger or power bank.
• Important documents stored in a waterproof container.
• Cash in small bills.
• Personal hygiene items and clothing.
• Supplies for children, seniors, or pets if required.
Keep your emergency kit in an easily accessible location.
Make an Emergency Plan
Talk with your family about what you will do if you need to leave your home quickly.
Your plan should include:
• Emergency contact numbers.
• A designated meeting place.
• Multiple evacuation routes.
• Plans for pets and livestock.
• Knowing where utility shut-offs are located if it is safe to use them.
Practice your plan regularly so everyone knows what to do.
During a Wildfire
• Stay informed by monitoring local emergency alerts.
• Be prepared to evacuate immediately if instructed.
• Keep vehicle fuel tanks at least half full during wildfire season.
• Close windows, doors, and vents if smoke is present.
• Wear an N95 or equivalent mask outdoors if air quality becomes hazardous.
During a Flood
• Never drive through flooded roads. Just a small amount of moving water can sweep away a vehicle.
• Move valuables and important documents to higher ground if safe to do so.
• Turn off electricity if instructed by emergency officials and if it is safe.
• Avoid floodwater, as it may contain sewage, chemicals, or hidden hazards.
Stay Informed
Emergency information can change quickly. Stay connected through local emergency alerts, municipal notifications, and trusted news sources. Follow evacuation orders immediately—leaving early is always safer than waiting.
Preparedness Saves Lives
Emergencies often happen with little warning. Taking a few simple steps today can make a significant difference tomorrow. Having a plan, maintaining an emergency kit, and staying informed can help protect you, your family, and your community when every minute counts.
Prepared today. Safer tomorrow. Make emergency preparedness part of your family’s safety plan.
