This week is Emergency Preparedness Week in Alberta.

Lorri Laface with the City of Airdrie says this week is a good opportunity for residents to make sure they're prepared in the event of a worst case scenario.

"It's the time of year to look at your 72 hour preparedness kit, even subscribing to apps like Alberta Emergency Alert."

Among the best ways to prepare for an emergency, according to Laface, is to have a 72 hour kit prepared. In the event of an emergency, first responders are sometimes overwhelmed and not able to assist everyone right away.

"The idea behind it is people take care of themselves and their family for 72 hours. So they know that they can count on themselves for the first 72 hours, and that helps responders deal with that first period of time, where they may not be able to get to everybody."

Good items to include in 72 hour kit are food, water and flashlights.

Laface also said a great step to prepare for an emergency is simply getting to know your neighbours.

"It builds resiliency in the neighbourhoods, and people knowing one another and knowing they can count on others even to help in a notification, so if you're aware of something, letting your neighbours know."

The City does have a neighbourhood matching grant available through the Community Initiatives Fund, and Laface says those funds can be used to hold events to get to know your neighbours and strengthen community on your street.

Airdrie won't be holding any events for Emergency Preparedness Week, but do have plenty of resources on their website, which you can find here.

 

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