It’s important for every homeowner to have an emergency preparedness plan that can help ensure their family’s safety should a disaster strike. Here some tips to help put together a plan for your household.
1. Know the risks in your community
Historically, the natural disasters to have struck Nova Scotia are hurricanes, floods and blizzards. Other potential natural risks and hazards include wildfires, widespread power outages, chemical releases and pandemics. You should form your emergency preparedness plan with these particular risks in mind.
2. Sign up for hfxALERT
Sign up to receive notifications from hfxALERT, Halifax’s mass notification system for urgent announcements from the Halifax Regional Police and Halifax Fire & Emergency.
3. Identify your emergency exits
Some emergencies, such as fires, require that you exit your home swiftly. In this type of scenario, the front door may not be an option. Identify all the possible exits out of each room and map out the safest and effective evacuation route.
4. Make a list of emergency contacts
This should include the phone numbers for:
• Family members • The nearest hospital • Your family doctor • The local police and fire department • Your energy provider • Your neighbours
5. Create an emergency kit
The Government of Canada recommends that every family have an emergency kit that allows them to be on their own for a minimum of 72 hours. Some of the items your kit should include are:
• Drinking water (at least two litres per person per day) • Non-perishable food • First aid kit • Flashlight • A crank radio • Cash • Medication
Refer to the Government of Canada website for a more comprehensive list.
6. Make copies of important paperwork
Store copies of important cards and documents such as passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, wills and land deeds in your emergency kit.
7. Take preventive action
While it’s a good idea to be prepared for an emergency, it’s just as important to take steps to prevent them. Make sure you place smoke alarms on each storey of your house and test their batteries regularly. It’s also wise to have multiple fire extinguishers in the house.
If you live in a neighbourhood that’s prone to flooding, consider installing a sump pump if you don’t already have one.
8. Get the right insurance coverage
Having good home insurance coverage is another essential part of emergency preparedness. However, not every insurance plan is created equal, so speak to your insurance broker to make certain you have the protection you need should disaster strike.
The experienced brokers at Eisenhauer Insurance can help you customize your insurance plan so that it protects you against losses caused by natural disasters and other emergencies. Contact us to schedule an appointment with a broker or to get a free quote for insurance in Nova Scotia.