Recent disasters like the earthquake in Nepal serve as a stark reminder for the need to be ready. In the past year, the Canadian Red Cross provided assistance to 2,110 Saskatchewan individuals who were affected by more than 140 disasters – that’s an average of a disaster almost every 2.5 days.
As part of Emergency Preparedness Week (May 3-9, 2015), the Red Cross encourages all Canadians to be ready. Emergency Preparedness Week is a national event coordinated by Public Safety Canada with support from provinces, municipalities and other organizations.
“Disasters strike when you least expect it and resources can be quickly overwhelmed. It could take 72 hours or more for assistance to reach your family,” said Kim MacLean, Disaster Management Manager for the Canadian Red Cross in Saskatchewan. “We urge families to take responsibility for their own safety and well-being.”
There are three simple steps Canadians can take to help prepare themselves and their families:
1. Know the risks in their community.
2. Have a plan so that each family member knows what to do in an emergency.
3. Get an emergency preparedness kit with enough supplies for each family member, including: non-perishable food, water, a manual can opener, flashlights and radios, cash in small bills, and special needs items like diapers or medications.
The Red Cross also reminds the public that tickets for the Great Saskatchewan Red Cross Lottery are on sale now at www.redcross.ca/sklottery.
“All it takes is one toll-free call to 1-800-667-9941 for your chance to win some amazing prizes and help the Red Cross reach the most vulnerable people in Saskatchewan,” said MacLean. “All proceeds stay in Saskatchewan to support the Red Cross as we respond to disasters.”
For more information, visit www.redcross.ca/ready or take part in the various Emergency Preparedness Week activities held across the country. Canadians can also learn more about emergency kits by using the Canadian Red Cross Preparedness Calculator on Facebook.
