In the past I have shared with you all my passion for emergency safety. Having went through a 2 week long power outage in the middle of winter do to freezing rain, the subject really touches my heart. I saw my neighbours lose food, belonging sand pets. The emergency crews were doing everything they could as fast as they could. The power outage was huge. We were prepared for a few days. Nobody could have possibly expected such a long outage. Nobody was prepared for the two weeks. No power meant no gas. It meant no water if you were on a well and had a pump like us. It also meant that many stores were closed and sold out of everything. Neighbours relied on neighbours, friends and family did what they could. We made the best of it and survived. Those who had woodstoves opened their homes to others. People with generators helped power freezers and fridges even space heaters. The community really came together. Sad, tragedy needs to hit for such love to be shown.
Not too long ago a natural disaster even bigger hit close to home. In August, 2011 an F3 tornado hit Goderich Ontario, severely damaging the historic downtown and homes in the surrounding area. One person died and dozens of others were injured in the aftermath. The insurance industry paid claims of more than $110 million to help people put their lives back together. I think this disaster really hit home for many Ontario residents. It made us all realize it could happen to anyone, anywhere. So the need and desire to be prepared is higher than before.
Here’s how you can help to protect your family from damage created by severe weather.
Assemble an emergency supply kit. Have a 72-hour kit ready before disaster strikes. It should include: water, non-perishable foods, battery-powered radio,flashlight, extra batteries,first aid kit, sturdy shoes for each family member, identification,cash and special needs items such as prescription medications.
For a complete list of emergency supplies, visit www.getprepared.ca.
Improvements to your home may help reduce the risk of damage. There are practical ways to get your home ready for a tornado such as installing impact-resistant windows and anchoring heavy items that could become flying debris. Items such as patio furniture and garbage cans should be secured to avoid becoming high-speed projectiles.
Prepare a detailed home inventory in case you have to make an insurance claim. Taking stock of your possessions will be invaluable in the event damages occur. An easy-to-use home inventory form is available under the Resources tab on ibc.ca.
I am happy to report I recently visited Goderich. The town is rebuilding and as beautiful as ever. And more prepared too! Is your family prepared? If disaster struck would you and yours be okay?
Have you ever experienced a natural disaster?
Disclosure
Although this post has generously been sponsored by Insurance Bureau of Canada, the opinions and language are all my own, and in no way do they reflect Insurance Bureau of Canada.
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