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Is Your Family Prepared?

Emergency Preparedness Week is a national awareness initiative that has taken place annually since 1996. It is a collaborative event undertaken by provincial and territorial emergency management organizations supporting activities at the local level, in concert with Public Safety Canada and partners. EP Week encourages Canadians to take three simple steps to become better prepared to face a range of emergencies:

  • Know the risks
  • Make a plan
  • Get an emergency kit

In Ontario, regional risks may include flooding, severe storms, forest fires, and transportation accidents. As well, there is the possibility of acts of terrorism on Canadian soil. Being prepared and knowing what to do in advance could save your life, and those of your loved ones. Emergencies can occur suddenly and without any advance warning. Although local, provincial and federal officials are prepared for emergencies, individuals and families play a vital role in preparing for times of crisis when emergency services and other government resources may be strained. It is important that individuals and families prepare to be self-reliant for at least three (3) days immediately after or during an emergency. You may have some of these basic emergency kit items already, such as a flashlight, battery-operated radio, food, water and blankets. The key is to make sure they are organized, easy to find and easy to carry (in a suitcase with wheels or in a backpack) in case you need to evacuate your home. Whatever you do, don't wait for a disaster to happen.

Basic Emergency Kit Items

  • Easy To Carry
    Think of ways that you can pack your emergency kit so that you and those on your emergency plan can easily take the items with you, if necessary
    • .

  • Water
    Two litres of water per person per day (Include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order)


  • Food
    That won't spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (remember to replace the food and water once a year)


  • Cash
    Include smaller bills, such as $10 bills (travellers cheques are also useful) and change for payphones


  • Emergency Plan
    Include a copy of it and ensure it contains in-town and out-of-town contact information


  • Special Needs Items
    Prescription medications, infant formula or equipment for people with disabilities


  • Manual Can Opener
  • Flashlight and Batteries
  • Battery Powered Wind-up Radio
  • Extra Batteries
  • First Aid Kit
  • Extra Keys for Your Car and House