Are you and your family prepared if a disaster or emergency strikes? Many people believe that disasters for the Chatham-Kent area are little to none, however  the public is encouraged to  not overlook the importance of setting up a plan in case of unfortunate circumstances. Whether it be a house fire, flood, power outage or gas leak, these situations can happen at any time and must be dealt with seriously.
The Canadian Red Cross visited the Wallaceburg Public Library today from 12:30-1:30 p.m and 6:30-7:30 p.m educating the public on awareness of how to prepare their children and themselves for various crisis’s. Over 30 community members between the two presentations attended, asking various engaging questions about how an emergency bag can be the biggest benefit in those situations.
Chatham-Kent Disaster Management Intern, Samantha Hamelin said she feels the support from this area has been reassuring that the public is taking initiative to become more knowledgeable on items that they should keep in case an emergency.
“It’s so beneficial for the public to become aware of this. With disasters and emergencies just you never know. Being prepared helps yourself, your family, the community and Canadian Red Cross. I’m just overwhelmed with the support here”.
Throughout the presentation Hamelin expressed how families and independents must put a plan in place for when a disaster strikes. She expressed three key elements to being prepared.
1- Know the Risks in the Community
2- Make a Plan
3- Get a Kit
Preparing an emergency kit should last you up to 72 hours in a crisis situation. These kits are encouraged to be kept at home (usually by the front door, not buried on a shelf in the garage). The Canadian Red Cross sells safety bags including all recommended items, however depending on the individual they can also purchase items  at a store if preferred.
The items as well as the bags can be found at their website at www.redcross.ca/ready
This Friday Walmart in Wallaceburg will be hosting a BBQ in one of their many supports of the Canadian Red Cross. The public is invited to attend from  10 a.m-1 p.m. “Everyone goes through something difficult at one point or another in their lives and being able to have that opportunity to support them is so rewarding. 100% donations that we receive from the Walmart campaign all go directly to buying supplies for disaster relief”.
 
