This week is Emergency Preparedness Week, and fire officials are reminding people across Huron County to plan ahead in case of an emergency. Deputy Fire Chief Michael Herbert of the South Huron Fire Department spoke with myFM about the week.
Herbert says emergencies can happen anytime, whether it’s a snowstorm in winter, a tornado in summer, or even a power outage or cyberattack.
In Huron County, people should be ready for extreme weather like heat waves, freezing temperatures, flooding, fog, and hail. Wildfires, chemical spills from transport trucks, and even possible nuclear emergencies from nearby Bruce Power are also risks that residents should keep in mind.
To get ready, Herbert suggests building a 72-hour emergency kit. This should include things like water, food, a first-aid kit, a flashlight or battery-powered radio, cash, a list of medications, and warm blankets.
He also recommends visiting the Government of Canada’s “Get Prepared” website, where people can find tips and checklists to help them and their families make a plan.
Herbert encourages everyone to learn about the risks in their area and talk about emergency plans with their loved ones. He says the South Huron Fire Department is happy to help with questions or home safety checks, especially for seniors who may not know where to turn.
Written by: K. Milhomens