Most emergency events in Annapolis County are caused by weather. You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours. Being prepared means:
- Knowing the Risks;
- Developing a Plan; and
- Preparing a Kit
- Knowing the Risks
In Nova Scotia we know of the natural risks that exist for our communities, such as: •
Wildfires •
Drought •
Hurricanes (Heavy rainfall, winds) Atlantic Hurricane Season is June 1st – November 30th
•
Winter Storms (Blizzards, heavy snow fall, freezing rain, ice storms, poor road conditions - black ice & slush,
high winds)
•
Storm Surges •
Flooding •
Power Outages •
Disease Outbreaks •
Becoming Lost Note: Climate changes are likely to create stronger storms more often in Annapolis County.
2.
Developing a Plan
Thinking and planning ahead will help reduce the stress of an emergency. Every household should have an emergency plan prepared. Public Safety Canada offers a guide to help
households in preparing for an emergency.
Click on the link below to get your free guide: “72 HOURS - Your emergency preparedness guide: Is you family prepared?”
Making a Family Emergency Plan video:
A good plan tells you where to find the things you need and what to do during an emergency. This also means creating a social support network.
Create a personal support network: This is a group of at least 3 people you trust to help you in times of an emergency.
o Ask people if they are willing to help you in an emergency.
o Give them important contact numbers like your cell, home, work or school.
o Tell these people where you keep your emergency kit and give someone you trust a key
to your home.
o Include someone who lives outside of your region as they probably won't be affected by
the same emergency.
Important things to include in your plan:
o Have your
Shelter in Place ready
o Location of your fire extinguisher, main water valve, electrical box, gas shut-off, and floor drain
o Contact information for friends and family
o Plans for looking after your pets
o Information about your special health needs
o Contact information and instructions for your personal support network
o List and supply of medication for family members
Keep a copy of your plan in your emergency kit, at home, in your car, and at work. 3.
Preparing a Kit
An important part of preparing for an emergency is to have your 72 hour emergency kit
ready. Your kit will contain the basic supplies that will help you get through at least the first
72 hours of an emergency. Remember that many of these items you may already have in
your house. Be sure to make sure you know where everything is located and working, and
not out of date.
You should have a kit prepared for your Home, Vehicle and a Grab and Go.
How to prepare your Emergency Kit video:
Emergency Kit Checklists:
o Household Needs
o Grab and Got Kit
o Vehicle Emergency Kit
Make sure your family’s emergency kit is easy to carry. For example, keep it in a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase with wheels. Store it in an easily-accessible place and make sure
that everyone knows where it is. Check your kit twice a year and replace any outdated
items. Food and water should be replaced once a year.
