When disaster strikes you can never be too prepared.
The Canadian Red Cross, on the heels of many disasters in Canada last year, is encouraging Albertans to take steps to be ready for the unexpected.
“While we held Emergency Preparedness Week from May 4 to 10 there is always a need to be prepared,” said Leigh Baker, community outreach worker at the Red Deer Branch of the Canadian Red Cross. “During the month of May, we focus on emergency preparedness, not just for the first week. As part of the Innisfail Community Partners group we are pleased to offer information and assistance to companies or service groups who want to train their staff and volunteers throughout the year.”
In Red Deer alone, disaster management volunteers responded to 25 local emergencies, assisting 102 individuals this past year, said Matt Sawatsky, associate for preparedness and training at the Canadian Red Cross.
Sawatsky reminds Albertans they are not immune from disasters that seem commonplace in other parts of the world, citing the April 10 Penhold fire as an example.
“The Red Cross was there to help the displaced residents on April 10 and assisted in registering victims,” said Sawatsky. “We also provided emotional support by listening to the families and lent a hand to some families with lodging over the first weekend. It was an amazing thing to see our volunteers step up and help the people of Penhold out.”
Sawatsky praised the volunteers who responded in Penhold, adding all Red Cross assistance the first night was volunteer driven.
“This is why it is so important that individuals and families ensure they are prepared for at least 72 hours,” said Sawatsky.
Sawatsky suggested that each and every family should have an emergency plan, supplies to last 72 hours, and know what crisis services are available and the risks in their community.
“Families should have food, cooking supplies, some money in small bills, water, a radio, flashlights and a can opener in their kits,” said Sawatsky. “You never know what you might need when the time arises.”
Additionally, the Canadian Red Cross is celebrating its volunteers with its 2014 Volunteer Appreciation event on June 12 in the Red Deer Room at the Red Deer Lodge from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
“We look forward to honouring over 60 volunteers at the Red Deer Lodge,” said Sawatsky. “Some of our honourees have been part of the Red Cross for 25 years or more. As much as they give back to our clients, we want to give a little back to them too.”
For further information on the Canadian Red Cross and its programs, go to www.redcross.ca/ready or call 403-346-1241.
