Are you prepared?

your vehicles and one in your home.

At times like this, you will be glad you took an emergency training course.

Contact the Red Cross or St. Johns Ambulance for course details if you have not done this before. 4. Food Gather an emergency food pack for your family.

Choose foods that do not require refrigeration.

Make sure medical conditions and allergies are considered in advance.

Include beverages, canned foods, freeze dried foods and instant foods.

Remember a can opener, plates and utensils. 5. Water Clean water is required, not only for drinking but for cooking, washing and personal hygiene.

Depending upon your circumstances you may need up to four litres of water per person per day.

Include bottled water in your emergency kit.

Water may need to be boiled or purified if available only from an uncertain source. 6. Clothing Depending upon the weather, you will need to consider multiple layers for cold weather and protection from the heat during summer weather.

Footwear and head gear are both important to remember. 7. Prescription medicine Having all your medicine in one place will help ensure nothing is forgotten.

Ask your pharmacist or physician how to store your medicine for emergency purposes. 8. Other items Having a portable radio (with batteries), a flashlight (again with batteries), candles, matches and a supply of money, including coins, will help complete your emergency supplies.

Keeping your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full at all times ensures you have transportation when most needed.

Most people have a cellphone, but if you are unable to charge your phone or tablet, it is of limited use for obtaining news updates.

Put your emergency supply kit in a tote box or other compartment.

Keep it close to your door or storage area so any family member can easily reach it.

Take the time to get yourself prepared, both you and your business will be glad you did.

Marion Wahl is a Chartered Professional Accountant in Kelowna. Reach her at marionpwahl@shaw.ca.