Emergency preparedness kits especially invaluable during winter. Nisit Rawo/Dreamstime.com

By Jayk Sterkenburg

SAFETY

Canada Red Cross proposes emergency preparedness kits as Christmas gifts

Dec 13, 2024 | 4:35 PM

Emergency preparedness kits can be the difference between life and death in a crisis.

Canadian Red Cross distributes their own emergency kits, but a person can put one together by themselves as well.

Statistics show that when people are better prepared, recovery comes much easier, and an event will have less impact.

Mark Holzer, manager of disaster risk reduction with Canadian Red Cross, said that during Christmas time, kits make an ideal gift.

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“I kind of like the idea. Because it can either fully provide somebody with some of those preparedness items, or it’s a good way to have those conversations,” he told CHAT News on Friday.

“If you have a family member, or anything, this might be a good option. You can give it to them as a gift and include in the conversation why it’s so important to be prepared for emergencies,” he added.

“It’s also a good idea to check on them annually, just to make sure that everything is in good condition, nothing has been expired.”

Holzer said that no one can ever predict when an emergency may happen.

Kits can be useful for at home or on the go, typically containing food, water, a flashlight, radio, and batteries, and something to keep warm.

They can also include medications, extra cash, personal hygiene items, a charging pack, and most importantly — a first aid kit.

Canada Red Cross lists a range of items that can additionally be included in an emergency preparedness kit.

Holzer says that while winter related emergencies specifically are most prevalent right now, a variety of risks exist in the province.

“In Alberta, we’re at risk for wildfires, floods, severe heat, severe cold, earthquakes, any types of storms, but also transportation incidents,” he said.

“You could be on the highway and be stuck in a community or on the highway for a few hours, and so having a small kit in your vehicle is very helpful as well,” he added.

“It can also allow you to evacuate your home, but also if you need to remain in your home. Sometimes sheltering in place is the safest option.”

Holzer said that a kit should provide adequate resources for the whole family, that would last for at least a few days, in the case that one would not be able to leave their home.

You can purchase a Canada Red Cross emergency kit from their website.