Emergency planning: How to make a "grab and go" bag

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Disasters can strike at any time, anywhere, including in your community.

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Whether you need to leave your home or shelter in place, having a proper emergency kit that is portable and easy to find will ensure you have what you need to keep your household safe.

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(A magnifying glass appears over the house and reveals an icon of an emergency kit.)

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In this video, we will look at what you need to build an emergency kit.

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(ONSCREEN TEXT: Build an emergency kit.)

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In an emergency, basic services like your water, electricity, gas and phone service may not work.

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An emergency kit can provide essential necessities for you and your loved ones.

Water is important for drinking, cooking and sanitation.

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You will need about four litres per person, per day. Include small bottles that can be carried easily.

(ONSCREEN TEXT: 4 litres per person, per day)

You will also need food. Use some that won't spoil.

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Include a manual can opener and add items like baby formula and pet food if you need them.

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You may lose power in an emergency. Your kit should include a flashlight and a radio to stay informed.

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(Two types of portable radios pop up in the light.)

Pack extra batteries, or buy the kind that can be manually powered.

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You will also want chargers for your mobile devices. If you lose electricity or cellular networks are down, your cordless home phone or mobile device may not work.

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Consider having a phone with a cord just for emergency use.

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Your emergency kit wouldn't be complete without a first aid kit. It should include the basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, protective gloves, pain relievers, and face masks.

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Now let's look at some items that may be less obvious. It may be difficult to get prescription medications during or even for a while after an emergency.

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If possible, include enough medication to last a couple of weeks. Also consider what specialized equipment may be needed for family or household members with limited mobility or special needs.

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It may also be difficult to get cash from banks. If possible, have enough to cover your basic needs for a few weeks.

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Lastly, keep copies of important documents like birth certificates, wills, passports and insurance policies in your kit.

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Remember to include a copy of your emergency plan, plus contact information for friends and family who may be able to help.

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Keep your emergency kit ready by replacing any items that might expire like food, water, batteries and medications, at least once a year.

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It may seem like a lot, but you probably already have many of the items you need. Print off an emergency kit checklist and the next time you're running errands, pick up a few items to add. Or you can buy a prepackaged kit

(Icons disappear and are replaced with a yellow screen. Several items pop up onscreen: A radio, a blanket, water bottles, a first aid kit, a flashlight, cans, a fire extinguisher, medication, a utility knife, a lantern.)

It's everyone's responsibility to ensure your household is prepared in case of an emergency. With a little preparation, you can be ready for anything.

(A family stands outside their home. An icon of an emergency kit appears beside them.)

Get started at GetPrepared.ca.

(ONSCREEN TEXT: Get started at GetPrepared.ca)

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