The magnitude 6.6 earthquake that occurred off the west coast of Vancouver Island on April 23 is a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared.
Emergency Preparedness Week — May 4 to 10 — is a good time to take a few simple steps and prepare to minimize the impact an emergency could have on yourself and your family.
Here are three simple steps that you can take to better prepare for a range of emergencies:
- Know the risks
Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to the Okanagan — like what to do in the case of a forest fire, flooding, and technological or environmental accidents such as chemical spills and power failures — can help you better prepare. - Make a plan
Every student, staff and faculty member needs an emergency plan to guide them if disaster strikes. Practice what to do in different emergency situations. - Build a home emergency kit
During an emergency, you may need to get by without power or tap water.Keep some basic supplies available such as three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, battery-operated or wind-up radio, first-aid kit, pocket knife, prescriptions, extra set of keys and money, and copies of important documents.
Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
Emergency.ok.ubc.ca/epweek has videos and information about what goes into a basic kit, how to write an emergency plan and details on hazards. Invest a few minutes to learn how you can be prepared.
