During disasters and emergencies the standard for residents to be prepared to provide for themselves is for at least 72 Hours. This means Sheltering-In-Place.

What does Shelter-In-Place mean?
Shelter-In-Place means you are ready to comfortably stay in your home for 3 to 4 days without needing to go out for supplies even if the power is off.

• 911 lines stay open, but help may take longer to get to you during storm conditions.

• Your Shelter-In-Place plan needs to be specific to your family's needs and resources.

What would you lose in a Power Outage?

• Heat
• Running Water
• Medical Equipment
• Hot water
• Cooking ability
• Phone, computer(s)
• Entertainment devices
• Stored food (fridge, freezer)
• Pet/livestock necessities
• Other _______________

What would your family need to cope successfully for 3 to 4 days if businesses were closed, roads impassable and the power was out?
To answer this question, complete the Household Needs List based on power outage and road closures. Check the things you would have and the things you should get before a storm hits.


What should I do?
In Storm warning phase

• Stock "Household Needs Checklist"
• Make child/pet arrangements (school closure plans; pet care)
• Re-schedule travel plans
• Make "work from home" plans
• Test back-ups (flashlights, generators)
• Consider filling bathtubs/containers for water sources
• Charge battery operated devices
• Check on your smoke/carbon monoxide detector
• Talk about your plan with family members
• Check on your neighbor

During and immediately after the storm

• Monitor radio and local media
• Keep devices charged and ready
• Stay off the roads
• Use "work from home" plans
• Use "Household Needs Checklist"
• Keep pets safe
• Use alternative heat and cooking sources safely
• Check on your neighbor

What happens after 72 Hours or if conditions become more hazardous for families?
During some times of need, such as power outages with no heat during winter conditions
become unbearable and surviving the first 72 hours is not possible. There may also be times that extreme cold will drive people out of their homes or other conditions make sheltering in place
unreasonable or impossible. At those times it may be an appropriate time for a Comfort Centre.