*Guest blog by Alison Frehlich, communications advisor with the Canadian Red Cross.
The first step in emergency preparedness, according to the Canadian Red Cross, is to “know your risks”. Seems like a simple enough task. In fact, I always thought I had this one covered.
I grew up in Saskatchewan and was always clear what my major disaster risks were: floods, tornadoes, snow storms, summer storms that cause lightening and power outages, along with other possible scenarios such as train derailments. I was prepared for these risks and knew how to react to them. For example, I recall many occasions where I was racing to the basement during a potential tornado, with my cat in my arms or how I always had supplies in my car in case I was stranded on the side of the road during a snow storm.
But, upon moving to Ottawa I made the mistake of not updating this information. New city --- new province – new risks. I lived in ignorance until last summer when the earth started to shake. Yep, it was an earthquake and I had no idea what to do.
When the building started to sway that afternoon I wasn’t prepared and was filled with sheer panic. I jumped up from my seat and began pacing my office. Am I supposed to get under my desk? Stand in a doorway? Do I get out of the building? So instead I froze until it ended and then ran into the hallway looking for colleagues and direction. With a pounding heart, all I could do was wait for advice.
I’m fortunate that I work for the Canadian Red Cross and with people who know their risks. Very calmly, they asked that we exit the building until it was confirmed that the building was safe.
I often look back on this as a funny memory. However, it could have been much worse. If I had known the risks I would have known what to do. Preparedness can save your life and perhaps your neighbour’s life too. It can guide you through a scary or difficult situation. It can help you be the calm voice guiding others to safety during an emergency.
I learned from my mistake the hard way, but you have a chance to do what I didn’t. This emergency preparedness week I urge you to be ready and start by knowing your risks.