Thunder Bay area residents urged to prepare for emergencies

NorWest Community Health Centres are marking emergency preparedness week by reminding people in the Thunder Bay area to make a plan, and pack a kit, in case of a disaster such as a flood, storm, or major power outage. 

On Thursday May 7 the health centres are hosting an event, titled "Are you Prepared?" from 1 p.m. -  7 p.m. at the NorWest Recreation Centre, where people can get started on building their own emergency preparedness kit.

Everyone should have a kit ready with enough supplies to get them through three days, said Anita Jean, the manager of health and social programs with the NorWest Community Health Centres. 

"It's really nice when you have things that are... packed up and ready to go so you can just grab what you need. At least your personal ID, clothing for a few days just in case. So it's like insurance,"  she said.

It's also important for families to have an action plan, and a designated meeting place, in case they need to rally in an emergency, said Jean, adding that people shouldn't forget to factor in the family pet.

Six things to pack in your emergency preparedness kit:

• Food that won't spoil, and water 
• A battery powered or wind-up radio to stay connected and receive updates
• A flashlight and batteries
• Money, including small bills and change for payphones
• ​Personal ID
• A first aid kit

For a full check-list of emergency items, click here.