Be Prepared, Not Scared

Eileen Grant, Manager Oak Bay Emergency Program

It is easy to be prepared for any emergency. Just follow the emergency preparedness mantra – know the risks, have a plan, have a kit, and know your neighbours. Know the risks. In Oak Bay, what are the emergencies you should be prepared for? Weather, loss of utilities, fire, and earthquake. Remember an emergency or disaster can include an unexpected trip to the hospital or a traffic jam on the Malahat. Have a plan. Make two plans. Develop one that covers staying in your home or as we say shelter-in-place, if it is safe to do so, and the second will involve leaving or evacuating from where you are if it is not safe to stay put. The important components of these plans are: • Determining at least two escape routes and a safe meeting place. • Making sure you include everyone in your plan. Do not forget your pets. • Making lists of the resources you will need. If you are sheltering in place, you should think in terms of 7 days. If you are evacuating, think 24 hours. Once you have the plans, remember to share the plans, keep them up to date and practice them. Build your kits. There are two kits everyone should have. Their names describe their use. Shelter-in-place (7 days) – Essentials include, water, food, a way to stay informed and to communicate, medications, important documents, money (small denominations), sturdy shoes and warm clothes. Include extra supplies for your pets. Grab & Go (24 hours) – The list is the same, the quantities will vary. Remember to keep this kit light enough to carry for a distance. Wheels help but will not work on stairs or rough terrain. Pets should each have their own Grab & Go bag. Personalize your kits so you can ensure they contain what you need.

Important Tips:

• The never-be-without items – water, medications and supplies to support your special health needs • Include extra adapters, battery packs and other supporting equipment that will keep your current phones and tablets operational in all your kits. • Where do you keep your kits – where they will be readily accessible. Think about the possible risks, check out your surroundings and then pick the best places for your circumstances. • Read and understand your insurance policies. Call your agent if you have questions. • Stay informed. Things change and it is important not to be left behind. Know your neighbours! Get to know your neighbours so you can rely on them, and they can rely on you in an emergency. Now you are prepared. It is that easy. For more information on Emergency Preparedness and the C-MIST framework contact the Oak Bay Emergency Program, 250.592.9121 or obep@oakbay.ca or drop in for a visit. The office is located at the Oak Bay Fire Hall, 1703 Monterey Avenue and is open Monday through Friday. Oak Bay - Building a Disaster Resilient Community Sign-up for Oak Bay’s emergency notification system at www.oakbay.ca/alerts