Emergency Preparedness: Be Ready for Anything

Emergency Preparedness Week 2021 reminds us of the importance of being prepared for anything.

Preparing for emergencies can be a little overwhelming for some, but by breaking it down into simple steps and making preparedness a habit, we can be ready for anything.

Step 1:  Know the hazards so you can prepare for them. 

One of the most important steps of emergency preparedness is knowing and understanding what hazards you will need to prepare for, such as the common hazards within the Sturgeon region including floods, summer and winter storms, wildfires, power outages, and more.

Step 2: Make and practice your emergency plan.

Preparing and practicing a Personal Emergency Plan will help ensure you are ready in the event of an emergency. Making a Family Emergency Plan won't take long and there are templates online to help you put your plan together. Don’t forget to plan for your pets in case of emergency as well!

Step 3: Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit.

Being ready to care for yourself and your loved ones for at least 72 hours allows emergency workers to provide help to those who need it most. Emergency kits are particularly helpful in evacuation situations.

Step 4: Stay informed.

Emergencies and disasters can happen quickly, and it is important to stay alert and informed of situations as they arise and receive important status updates. Two useful tools are the Alberta Emergency Alert app, which provide information locally and provincially, as well as the Sturgeon County app, which includes notifications and alerts of activities in the Sturgeon region.

Step 5: Know your community.

Neighbours often help each other when an emergency happens and getting to know your neighbous can help build community resilience.  Talk to your friends and family about what supports are needed and how you can work together if an emergency situation happens.