You're more prepared for an emergency than you think

Running May 2 to 8, Emergency Preparedness Week teaches us how to protect ourselves, writes Mike Doyle

Yorkregion.com
April 22, 2021

Emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time --sometimes without warning.

They can result from an existing danger or a threat of impending danger. Their nature and size require a controlled and co-ordinated response by a number of government, private and community agencies.

Each year, during the first full week of May, Canada observes Emergency Preparedness Week. The week is a reminder of the importance of having a plan and being prepared for the unexpected.

This year, Emergency Preparedness Week will run from Sunday, May 2, to Saturday, May 8.

It’s important to remember you’re more prepared for an emergency than you think. While it can be difficult to think about the possibility of an emergency, there are steps we can take to protect ourselves.

1. Create an emergency plan and be sure to include the contact details of two family members who live out of the area and can use a mobile device.

2. Prepare an emergency kit by gathering supplies and make sure everyone knows where it is stored.

If you do not currently have an emergency kit, it may be difficult to gather the needed supplies --including canned food, candles and waterproof matches, flashlight, important papers and more.

For now, collect the items you have on hand and store them together in an accessible spot.

3. Stay informed. Situations can change very quickly during an emergency, and it is vital to know where to find accurate, current information about what is happening, what steps should be taken to protect everyone in your household and how to access the resources you need.

While we are still responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to be prepared. Responding to one type of emergency does not prevent another from potentially occurring.

By taking time now to make and review an emergency plan and kit, you can help ensure everyone in your household will know what to do to be safe in the future.

Staying informed is something everyone can do. You can visit many places to access vital resources.

The City of Vaughan shares information in several ways, including through the City Update eNewsletter, for which you can sign up at vaughan.ca/CityUpdate and official social media accounts on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

For more information on the city’s ongoing efforts, visit vaughan.ca/COVID19.

Knowledge is power in an emergency. Having a plan, knowing what to do and staying informed can help to save lives.

For more information about emergency planning or to access the city’s emergency plan, visit vaughan.ca/EmergencyPlanning.