According to recent polling by the Canadian Red Cross, 67 per cent of Prairie residents say they have not taken steps to prepare in the event of a disaster such as a massive storm.
This is despite the fact that nearly half of Prairie residents say they have personally been affected by a severe storm or tornado-related disaster.
“Only 23 per cent of Prairie residents say they have an emergency preparedness kit in their homes,” says Shawn Feely, provincial director of the Canadian Red Cross in Manitoba.
“We urge people across Manitoba to prepare; storms like (hurricane) Sandy can happen anywhere in the province, at any time.”
By being prepared for disasters, families can also help their communities. In the event of a disaster, emergency crews are not able to assist everyone immediately. By being prepared, Canadians are allowing emergency crews to help the most vulnerable in the community first.
“One-third of Prairie residents report having experienced a flood-related disaster, and 16 per cent have lost electricity for more than 72 hours,” Feely says. “In disaster-related circumstances such as these, it pays to be prepared.”
The Canadian Red Cross urges Canadians to make a plan, and build an emergency kit. Visit redcross.ca/ready for a full list of items to have on hand.
» Submitted
Republished from the Brandon Sun print edition October 31, 2012
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