If you have to leave your house due to an emergency, are you ready? The Haliburton Highlands O.P.P. is using Emergency Preparedness Week to remind residents to be prepared for at least 72 hours if there is a major problem, like a flood or forest fire.

Community Safety Officer Dianna Dauphinee says sitting down with your family to prepare a plan if something arises is important.

Dauphinee also suggests having an emergency kit that includes a flashlight and batteries.

She also recommends bringing extra clothing, any medications you may need, as well as a sleeping bag.

Below are some items the O.P.P. suggests you have ready in case of an emergency.

  • Flashlight with spare batteries
  • Spare batteries (for radio and flashlight)
  • Solar panel to charge batteries
  • First-aid kit
  • Telephone that can work during a power disruption
  • Candles with matches or a lighter
  • Non-perishable food (ready-to-eat items that do not require refrigeration)
  • Manual can opener
  • Bottled water (4 litres per person per day)
  • Extra clothing and footwear
  • Blankets or sleeping bag
  • Toilet paper and other personal items
  • Medication
  • Whistle (to attract attention if needed)
  • Entertainment activities i.e. playing cards, books, colouring

A vehicle emergency kit should also be considered and stored safely in each of your vehicles in case you are away during an emergency. A vehicle safety kit can include:

  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Lightweight collapsible shovel
  • Emergency candles
  • Candles with box of matches
  • Blankets
  • Orange “Emergency Help – Call Police” Banner
  • Light Sticks
  • Bottles of water and Non-perishable food
  • Siphon Pump
  • Booster cable or battery pack
  • Emergency Whistle
  • Rain Poncho