EP Week: Emergency Kit Checklist Emergencies and disasters can strike unexpectedly. Utilities may be disrupted, roads could become impassable, and essential supplies might not be accessible. Although local, provincial, and federal authorities work to prepare for emergencies, individuals should also plan ahead for their homes and workplaces. It’s crucial for everyone to be ready to sustain themselves and their families for a minimum of three days in case of an emergency or disaster. For more information visit Getprepared.ca Below is a basic emergency kit checklist to help you gather the supplies you may need during an emergency: 1. Water 💧 At least two liters per person per day for drinking and sanitation 2. Food 🥫 Non-perishable food items such as canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit A manual can opener if necessary 3. First Aid Kit 🚑 Bandages, gauze, and adhesive tape Antiseptic wipes and ointment Pain relievers and other medications Tweezers and scissors 4. Flashlight 🔦 Include extra batteries or a hand-crank option Consider a headlamp for hands-free use 5. Radio 📻 Battery-powered, solar-powered, or hand-crank radio Important for staying updated on emergency alerts 6. Extra Batteries 🔋 For devices such as radios, flashlights, and any other electronics 7. Personal Care Items 🧼 Toiletries, hygiene products, and moist towelettes Prescription medications and glasses/contact lenses if needed 8. Whistle 🔔 Useful for signaling for help 9. Emergency Blanket 🧣 Thermal blankets to help retain body heat 10. Multi-tool 🔧 Useful for various tasks during an emergency 11. Copies of Important Documents 📄 Identification, medical records, contact list, and important personal information Store in a waterproof container or sealed plastic bag 12. Cash 💵 In case electronic payment systems are unavailable 13. Cell Phone Charger 📱 Portable power bank or solar charger 14. Local Maps 🗺️ For navigation if GPS is unavailable 15. Matches, Candle and Lighter 🕯️🔥 Keep candles for light and warmth Waterproof matches and a lighter for starting fires and candles safely Having a basic emergency kit in your car can help you handle unexpected situations on the road. Always keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full, especially in the winter and remember to have your vehicle serviced regularly. Drive carefully! Below you will find a checklist to help you prepare your car emergency kit: 1. First Aid Kit 🚑 Bandages, gauze, and adhesive tape Antiseptic wipes and ointment Pain relievers and other medications Tweezers and scissors 2. Flashlight 🔦 Include extra batteries or a hand-crank option Consider a headlamp for hands-free use 3. Jumper Cables 🚗 For jump-starting a dead battery 4. Multi-tool 🔧 Useful for various tasks, including small repairs 5. Tire Pressure Gauge 🛞 Check tire pressure regularly 6. Spare Tire and Jack ⚙️ Ensure you have a spare tire and a functional jack 7. Blanket or Extra Clothing 🧣 Stay warm if stranded in cold weather 8. Bottled Water 💧 Stay hydrated while waiting for assistance 9. Non-Perishable Snacks 🥪 Keep your energy up in case you’re stuck for a while 10. Phone Charger 📱 Keep your phone charged to call for help 11 Duct Tape and Zip Ties 📦 Useful for quick fixes and securing items 12. Maps or GPS 📍 Traditional maps in case GPS is unavailable 13. Work Gloves 🧤 Protect your hands while handling repairs 14. Ice Scraper and Snow Brush ❄️ For clearing ice and snow from your car 18. Candles, Matches or Lighter 🔥 For starting a fire in an emergency Keep candles for light and warmth 18. Roadside Assistance Contact Card 📞 Have a contact number for roadside assistance 19. Emergency Contact Information Card 📝 Include important contact numbers and medical information Tips Prepare and maintain your emergency kit 1. Pack Your Kit Use an easy-to-carry bag or a wheeled case for transport 2. Store in an Accessible Location Keep the kit in a place that’s easy to reach Inform everyone in your household where the kit is stored 3. Organize Your Supplies Group similar items together and package them in clear plastic bags This helps organize and protect items from damage 4. Assemble Over Time Don’t rush to build your kit; spread out your shopping over several weeks Purchase a few items each time you visit the store 5. Account for Water Needs Ensure your water supply covers drinking, food preparation, hygiene, and dishwashing 6. Review and Refresh Your Kit Twice a Year A good time to do this is when the clocks shift for daylight savings time Check and replace expired food and water supplies Inspect and replace batteries as needed 7. Keep Your Mobile Devices Charged Maintain a full charge on your cell phone or mobile device Also, keep your power bank charged and ready to use