Emergency Preparedness

While Hurricane Dorian makes its way up the Atlantic coast after causing devastation in the Bahamas and continuing to impact the United States, many Atlantic Canadians are stocking up on essentials and preparing for a significant storm that could bring flooding as well as power outages to the region. In this digital age, there are many tech tools available to help you prepare and safely weather the storm.

The Taylor family had less than five minutes to evacuate their home when a train derailed near their community. In the rush, therapy cat Tigger slipped off his leash outside the evacuation centre and couldn't be found. Luckily, with Red Cross help, Tigger is back home with his family! 

We all have unique needs, so it makes sense that your emergency kit will also be unique. Read how Red Crosser Mahmood Jafari makes sure his emergency plan includes plans for his mobility during emergencies and disasters, and how those with impaired mobility can be ready. 

What goes into a Canadian Red Cross emergency car kit? Watch this video to find out. 

Most of us remember cold, snowy weather in stark detail so the heat of summer is often a welcome sight, a warm embrace even for us Canadians. However, too much heat can be harmful, and we need to be conscious of what to do during a heat wave, not just for ourselves but particularly for our furry friends and elderly loved ones as well.

During wildfire season it is important to keep informed through trusted, verified sources, monitor weather, listen to local authorities, and prepare to evacuate if needed. Keeping your car fueled and essentials packed for the whole family is a good start. But what can you do around the house to prepare your home?

Use these tips from FireSmart Canada to prepare your property for wildfires. 

Many Canadians don't know the risks in their community, so recently Canadian Red Cross volunteers went door-to-door in communities to share information to spread awareness about risks like fires and floods, and the actions residents can take to prepare for potential disasters and emergencies. 

One of the best ways to be flood ready is to have an emergency kit in your home with enough supplies to meet your family’s needs for at least 72 hours. Most people remember to put the basics in their kit like, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, and water but there are things you may not think to include that you and your family need.