May 4 to 10 is Emergency Preparedness Week. Are you prepared for emergencies?  

As we approach the summer season, the likelihood of wildfires, severe weather, and other environmental events increases, leaving Albertans and Parkland County residents vulnerable to emergencies.  

While we can’t predict when emergencies might happen, we can be prepared for when they do.  

Get yourself prepared by considering these three emergency preparedness tips:  

1. Make an emergency plan that suits your needs  

Preparedness isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider your unique needs as you create your emergency plan.  

Here are some things to consider:  

  • Do you have access to a vehicle during an evacuation?  

  • Do you or your loved ones require extra support?   

  • Do you know the safe exits from your home and neighbourhood?  

  • Do you know where to meet your loved ones if you’re separated?   

Creating a plan will get your household on the same page and help you stay prepared and safe. 

2. Build an emergency kit 

No matter the emergency, emergency kits can help your household better manage disruptions. Your emergency kit should be easy to carry and should contain essential items. 

Here is a list of items to include in your kit:   

  • Food  

  • Water 

  • Clothes 

  • Flashlight  

  • Important documents (E.g., healthcare card, house insurance) 

  • Medications 

  • Pet supplies 

 3. Stay informed and know the risks 

One of Parkland County’s biggest safety threats is wildfires. Consider how safety threats like wildfires might affect you and stay up to date with the fire hazard level by visiting Parkland County’s website, Facebook, Instagram, and X page. 

Emergencies can happen anytime, so it’s important to be ready. A little preparation can make all the difference in an emergency situationTo keep you and your loved ones prepared, make an emergency plan, build an emergency kit, stay informed and know the risks 

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit our dedicated webpage here.