Emergencies can happen at any time, often without warning. In a major event, it may take time for first responders to reach everyone. That’s why it’s important to be ready to care for yourself and your family for at least 72 hours.

By taking simple steps today, you’ll be better prepared to handle a wide range of emergencies—helping protect your loved ones and your property.

STEP 1: KNOW THE RISKS: 

While some emergencies are common across Canada, each region faces its own set of risks. In Summerside, the most likely hazards include:

- Winter storms

- Power outages

- Flooding

- Gas leaks

- Tropical storms and hurricanes

- Industrial or transportation incidents

Being aware of these risks helps you prepare for what’s most likely to impact your household.

Don’t forget your pets! Include them in your emergency planning and have supplies ready for their safety and comfort.

 

STEP 2: MAKE AN EMERGENCY PLAN:

Having a family emergency plan ensures everyone knows what to do and where to go in a crisis—especially if you’re not together when it happens.

Your plan should include:

- Safe exits from your home and neighborhood

- Meeting places (nearby and out-of-town)

- Contact information (local and long-distance)

- A designated person to pick up children if needed

- Health or mobility needs

- Pet care and sheltering

- The location of utility shut-offs (water, gas, electricity)

Keep copies of your plan in multiple locations: at home, in your vehicle, and at work.

 

STEP 3: BUILD AN EMERGENCY KIT: 

Prepare a kit that can sustain each person in your household for at least 72 hours without access to electricity or tap water. Make sure it’s easy to carry and that everyone knows where it’s stored.

Basic Emergency Kit:

- Water – 2L per person per day (plus 1L per pet)

- Non-perishable food and a manual can opener

- Flashlight and radio (battery-operated or wind-up), with spare batteries

- First aid kit, prescription medications, infant formula

- Extra keys (house and car) and cash in small bills

- Copies of your emergency plan and contact info

- Special items for infants, seniors, or those with medical needs

- Pet supplies

- A corded phone, which can work during power outages

Additional Supplies:

- Extra water for cooking and hygiene

- Toiletries, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, garbage bags

- Rain gear, warm clothing, blankets

- Whistle, tools, duct tape, playing cards or books

- Copies of IDs and important documents

- Small camp stove and fuel (used safely outdoors)

Winter Car Emergency Kit:

-  Shovel, ice scraper, sand or kitty litter

-  Booster cables, emergency flares or lights

-  Blankets, food and water

- Extra clothing and winter gear

- First aid kit, compass, small axe

Be sure to check your kits annually and replace expired or outdated items.

Be Ready. Stay Safe.

Preparedness starts at home. Take these steps today to ensure you and your family can manage during an emergency. For more resources and downloadable checklists, visit: Canada.ca/GetPrepared.