Natural disasters, such as floods, wildfires and power outages, may occur at any time. In that instance, the federal or provincial governments may announce a rapid evacuation of your dwelling. An evacuation can also be needed if there's a fire or other emergency in your building.
An emergency may require you to stay at home without access to stores and utilities, or leave immediately. The trick is preparing yourself ahead of time with the right materials and a comprehensive emergency grab-and-go bag.
What is an emergency grab-and-go bag?
An emergency grab-and-go bag, also known as an emergency kit, includes all the items you need in the event of a major disaster. This kit is your go-to supply bag to quite literally grab and go at a moment's notice.
With a simple Google search, you can uncover a great deal of advice on what to include in your emergency kit. Conveniently, the Canadian Red Cross has a great video on what to include inside an emergency kit.
How do you prepare an emergency grab-and-go bag?
Here's a list of their suggested items:
- Water
- Food (non-perishable) and a manual can opener if this includes cans
- Special needs such as medications, baby needs, extra glasses, and more
- Important family documents (i.e., copies of birth and marriage certificates, passports, licenses, wills, land deeds, and insurance)
- A copy of your emergency plan
- Crank or battery-operated flashlight, with extra batteries
- Battery-operated or crank radio
- Extra keys for your home and car
- First aid kit
- Extra cash
- Personal hygiene items
- Pet food and pet medication
- Cell phone with extra charger or battery pack
Additional items may include a change of clothing, plastic sheeting, garbage bags, duct tape and many other supplies needed by the entire family (or yourself).
Before you take steps to buy those essential items, it's worth checking what items you already have at home. Then, consider creating a routine schedule where you disperse buying your needed items weekly or monthly. This prep will help you not rake up a hefty bill.
To find a more extensive list of items and detailed list of what to include in a vehicle emergency grab-and-go kit, visit Canadian Red Cross: Get an Emergency Kit
Deciding to prepare an emergency kit may seem like a drag. However, we promise it will be worth it when you only have minutes to leave your home.