emailMake a Plan
Personal Emergency Plan
An emergency plan will help to guide you and your family in case of an emergency. The plan should include information such as:
- An emergency meeting place to reunite with friends and family
- Contact persons both in and out of the area
- Safe exit routes from your home and work
- Risks in the region
- Locations of important equipment such as fire extinguishers, gas and water valves, floor drain, and the electrical box
- Health information such as allergies or necessary medication
Planning for Pets
If you need to leave your home, you will have to make some considerations when deciding whether or not to take your pet with you. If you are evacuated to a group lodging facility or reception centre, pets can create a number of health and safety issues for both people and pets (including your own). Some considerations to make:
If you choose to leave your pet at home:
- Make sure they have dry food and water for at least 3 days
- Put them in a room where there is access to a high counter in case of flooding and that is free of hazards like windows, large mirrors or picture frames
- Separate your dogs, cats, and other smaller pets as they may behave differently under stress
- Leave a sign on your door with the number of animals in the house along with their locations so emergency responders know where to look
If you choose to take your pet with you:
- Put them in a portable carrier and make sure they are comfortable with it beforehand
- Include items for your pet in your emergency kit, such as dry food and water for 3 days, extra medication, and kitty litter
© Image courtesy of Maleea Acker