Can AI help create a personalized emergency plan? Like many people, I have been hearing a lot about ChatGPT and I wanted to see if I could use it to create an emergency plan, tell me what I should include in my family’s kit, and what to do if there was a disaster in my city. While AI was able to get me started, it’s important to rely on trustworthy organizations like the Canadian Red Cross, when preparing for a disaster or emergency.

It was late February 2019, in Saskatoon. The night was freezing, and Samantha was standing outside in her shorts. She left behind her phone charger, her medication, and the wheelchair she uses to aid in mobility issues stemming from chronic arthritis. Samantha left it all behind because the fire alarm was blaring, and thick smoke was filling the hallways of her apartment building.
 

Strong storms, including tornadoes, can and do happen in Canada. If we can’t control the weather, we can at least prepare for it.
 

The James family were one of many households in Ottawa impacted by the Great Ice Storm of 1998.  They managed through the many chilly nights without power but realized they could have been more prepared. Debbie made the decision, when the time was right, to join the Canadian Red Cross. When learning how to be better prepared for disasters, she also trained to be a responder to help others. 
On September 21, 2018, when tornadoes tore through the Ottawa/Gatineau region, Debbie had volunteered with the Red Cross for 13 years. In that time, she had responded to over 100 individual emergencies and supported Canadians impacted by  large-scale disasters like the Alberta Floods and Fort McMurray Fires. 
 

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. 

As disasters become more common across Canada, Canadian Red Cross President and CEO Conrad Sauvé shares how we can learn from 2018 to plan for 2019. 
 

The holidays are a time to celebrate in good health with family and friends. Give the gift of safety this holiday season with 5 affordable ideas that suit any person on your list.
 

Snuggle up with your favourite hot beverage and read these quick First Aid for cold weather tips to prepare yourself for the Canadian winter as it approaches.