Earthquake, tsunami threat serves as reminder to have an emergency kit
Posted January 24, 2018 6:33 am.
Last Updated January 24, 2018 6:39 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Yesterday’s earthquake and tsunami threat was a reminder that you need to be prepared for a disaster, on a personal level. That’s why the Vancouver Fire Department has pointed people toward a YouTube series that lays out how to create your own emergency kit.
But Captain Jonathan Gormick says before you start buying supplies, you need something to put them in.
“Spill-proof, weatherproof containers,” he names in a video. “Widely available and inexpensive at any local retailer. The trick is, you need to actually go out and get it.”
The next priority should be food and water. He adds you should have enough for 72 hours, pointing out the region’s water comes from the North Shore.
“That water has to travel through large mains, under Burrard Inlet, before it can get to Vancouver for consumption. In a seismic event, those mains might break, rendering us without domestic water for a significant period of time.”
Gormick says for a family of four to survive the first three days, you need at least 36 litres of water.
“Go around the house and find some old, warm, synthetic clothes to toss into the kit for each member of your family. And pick up an inexpensive vinyl rain suit,” he adds.
A first aid kit, prescription medications and bandages are also recommended for an emergency kit.
