It's an emergency! Are you ready?
Here in Manitoba the threat of emergency has, for the most part, abated. The flood waters have ravaged communities across the Red River valley and to the north into the interlake area, people are taking stock of the damage or are grateful to have stayed safe.
Now Manitobans are waiting. Waiting for the waters to recede so the highways can open up, linking our individual communities once again and waiting for the ennui to pass. Canada is not immune to natural hazzards like, ice storms, rock slides, earthquakes and more but now there is alarming news of a possible (global) pandemic a unique influenza strain that has been dubbed the Influenza A (H1N1), keeps the nation's curiosity piqued. There is always a possibility of a disaster or an emergency occurring at any given moment how prepared are you?
The news is all buzz with the Influenza A(H1N1) (formerly known as the swine flu) that on April 29, 2009 was upgraded to a level five risk (a pandemic is looming and countries must confirm preparations to deal with the outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1) with the World Health Organization (WHO). On occasion pigs will pass a virus to a human and then it is possible that the virus will mutate into a strain that is easily passed from person to person. Public Health Agency of Canada recommends the regular precautions against this or any other flu; wash your hands regularly, cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or in the crook of your elbow and stay home if you are ill. If you are feeling sick, especially with respitory symtoms like difficulty breathing and coughing, contact your doctor. In the meantime give your immune system a little boost with a great diet, proper rest and drink lot's of water.
What if a pandemic or a natural hazzard keeps us from leaving the house? Have you seen the "72 Hours.....is your family prepared?" campaign? Launched by Canada's public safety minister The Honourable Peter Van Loan it is ‘designed to improve Canada's readiness to prepare for and respond to an emergency by mobilizing families to take three practical steps'; Know the risks, make a plan, and get a kit.
1) Know the Risks. Canada is a huge country and it is important to know what kind of natural hazard can occur in your region and be prepared for it. Being prepared makes all the difference for both the health and safety of your family and the teams coming out to help.
2) In case of emergency remember the plan! Every Canadian household should have an emergency plan stating what to do incase of emergency. Details like safe escapes from your home and neighborhood, a safe meeting place and the location of your fire extinguisher, water valve, electrical box, gas valve and floor drain all need to be addressed and known. The plan can be completed online or printed and completed in pen.
3) Get a kit. Being prepared and secure for 72 hours (3 days) is vital so that you are able to sustain yourself while emergency workers are aiding people who are in need of urgent care. Your basic kit should contain; 2 liters of water per person per day, non-perishable food items for everyone, manual can opener, batteries and flashlight, windup or battery powered radio, first aid kit, special needed items (medicinal needs, baby items, etc.), extra keys for your house and car, your emergency plan and Cash as ATM and credit cards may not function. The idea is to try and have your kit in a bag in case you have to leave the house. A backpack is ideal. It is recommended to include these items, like candles and clothing as well but you can also buy ready made kits that you can later customize to your family's needs.
Get on board! Be prepared and feel safe and at ease, even in an emergency.
