Are you prepared for an emergency?

By Toronto4Kids.com

Emergency Preparedness Week is May 2-8, 2010. Are you and your family prepared in case of an emergency?

While we may not think of our city as a "disaster zone", it's important to know your area and know the risks. In Ontario, regional risks may include flooding, severe thunder and lightning storms, forest fires, and transportation accidents. And what about hazardous material spills, infectious disease outbreaks, power outages or house fires?

Major disasters can occur at any time. Public Safety Canada warns that you should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours. It may take emergency workers time to get to you as they help those in urgent need. Lessen the impact of any crisis or disaster by knowing what to do before, during and after an emergency.

Consider these questions… Do you and you children know the safe exits from your home and neighbourhood? Do you have a meeting place to reunite with family? Is there a designated person to pick up children should you be unavailable? Is your health information readily available? Do you have a safe place for your pets to stay? Is everyone aware of the location of your fire extinguisher, water valve, electrical box, gas valve and floor drain?

To get started, visit the www.getprepared.ca website to find everything you need to Get Prepared! Checklists and detailed information are provided on creating a basic emergency kit for your home, and more.

When faced with an emergency, children are particularly vulnerable to stress. The site offers up some helpful tips such as taking their fears seriously and not forcing them to be brave. Be a good role model and share your feelings, but don't show them you are upset. Maintain a familiar routine to reinforce their sense of seurity and most of all pay extra attention to them.

For more information, visit: www.getprepared.ca.