Barriere Emergency Social Services (BESS) members would like to invite local residents to visit their display at the AG Foods parking lot on May 11, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. There will be representatives from BESS, the Barriere Fire Department, Simpcw, Search and Rescue, the RCMP and the Ambulance Services all on hand to answer any questions you may have regarding their services. There will also be cake, coffee and juice available for all to enjoy.
The National Emergency Preparedness Week 2012 marks the 17th annual event. Preparing for an emergency is important, and something the whole family can do. By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies and minimize the impact on yourselves and your families. Here are three simple steps to better prepare your family to face a range of emergencies:
• Know the Risks - Although the consequences of disaster can be similar, knowing the risks specific to the community and region (like what to do in the case of floods, earthquakes, hurricanes and technological or environmental accidents such as a chemical spill) can help you better prepare.
• Make a Plan - Every Canadian household needs an emergency plan. It will help you and your family know what to do if disaster strikes. Everyone should practice what to do in different emergency situations.
• Get/Make an Emergency Kit - During an emergency, you may need to get by without power or tap water. We will all need some basic supplies (items such as a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, battery-powered or wind-up radio, first aid kit, pocket knife, prescriptions, extra set of keys and money, and copies of important documents). Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency.
Checklists for what to include in a basic kit and extra items, how to write an emergency plan, and details on hazards across Canada are available at www.getprepared.ca.
