Build it or buy it: just be sure to have it
You can build it or buy it, but whatever you do, be sure you and your loved ones own up-todate emergency preparedness kits.
Chemical releases, fires, floods, hurricanes, severe storms (rain, wind, snow) and wildfires are just some of the emergencies requiring people to leave their homes quickly and seek shelter elsewhere.
Emergency preparedness kits, roadside safety kits and pet preparedness kits can be prepared at home, or easily purchased.
For humans, there are items every kit should have, according to information published on the official websites of the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, government of Canada, and government of Nova Scotia’s Emergency Management Office (EMO).
Each kit should have enough supplies, all in one bag, ready to go. The kit should sustain individuals for at least three days. The Canadian Red Cross recommends replenishing the kits at least every 12 months.
THE ESSENTIALS
Water. Small bottles may be easier to handle. At least two litres of water per person (for drinking, personal use) per day. An additional two litres per day for cleaning and cooking is recommended.
Food. Dried foods, energy bars, canned food and nutritional drinks.
Medication. At least three days of medication, including over the counter medications. Have a list of current medication(s) in the kit, be sure to update as needed.
Emergency phone numbers. Family, doctors, pharmacy.
First aid kit. For contents, visit Canadian Red Cross or St. John Ambulance websites.
Whistle.
SOS Sign. For window or front door to alert passersby.
Cash. Smaller bills and change.
Flashlight/light source. Solar, crank and/or batterypowered, glow sticks,
Radio. Solar, crank or battery.
Batteries. If using batteries, pack extra and replenish every year.
Keys. Extra set of house and car keys.
Set of clothes. Footwear, comfy pants and shirt.
Utensils. Spoon, fork, knife, utility knife.
Toilet paper roll(s). Tissues, paper towel sheets, cloths.
Pen and paper.
Distraction. A stuffed animal, deck of cards or crayons and paper.
VEHICLE SAFETY KITS
Blanket.
Clothing. Extra hat, mitts, scarf, socks.
Road flares. Warning lights or signs.
SOS sign. For car window, to alert passersby.
Whistle.
Small shovel. Be sure to carry window scrapers in winter months
Sand. Salt or cat litter (nonclumping) also works.
Jumper cables. Be sure to review instructions carefully.
Tow rope.
Seatbelt cutter. Store within the driver’s reach.
Car window safety hammer. Store within the driver’s reach.
Flashlight/ light source. Flashlight or glow sticks.
First aid kit. Include a few instant hot packs.
Water.
Food. Energy bars, dried foods, canned nutritional beverages.
Emergencies and disasters are inevitable. Preparation is priceless. Help yourself, loved ones and your community this season by building or buying emergency preparedness kits.
SHERYL DUBOIS SALTWIRE NETORK
SOURCES & SHOPPING
•Canadian Red Cross. Emergency preparedness kits and tools, roadside safety kits, first aid kits, and much more. Download free First Aid App. 1-877-692-6644 www.products. redcross.ca
•St. John Ambulance. First aid kits and tools, vehicle kits and more. 1-800-565-5056 ext 2402. www.sja.ca
•Disaster Animal Response Team of Nova Scotia (DARTNS). Pet emergency preparedness kits and more. www. dartns.org
•FREE First Aid App – Canadian Red Cross. Get it on Google Play, the App Store or www.redcross.ca