Prepare for emergency

As fire rages in northern Alberta and residents in the Peace River region remain on evacuation alert, Okanagan residents are reminded to be prepared for emergencies.

“During Emergency Preparedness Week (May 1-7) we always like to encourage the public to make 'grab and go' bags,” said Helen Sinclair, emergency program co-ordinator for the North Okanagan's inter-municipal emergency program.

Sinclair said these bags should sit in a handy location, perhaps in a closet near the front door, and contain items that include an extra set of car keys and eye glasses, as well as medication, insurance papers and family photos.

“If suddenly you get evacuated or you have to run, you grab your go bag and it lessens the impact of that disaster for you,” said Sinclair.

Don't forget your pets.

“We hear stories all the time, and now in Alberta, about people having to flee and they don't have their pets with them and they didn't have plans for them so please have some food for them, have whatever papers you need.”

Especially important is to have a family plan.

“Make a plan so that if (children) happen to be at school and you're away at work or you're shopping and an area get evacuated, where will you meet, who will you phone, is there a central point of contact for your family, does everyone know to call the same person and say 'I'm okay or here's where I am'?"

Photo: Emergency Preparedness B.C.

Include pets in emergency plans.