Be prepared for an emergency

How to build a 72 hour kit

May 4, 2018

If a natural disaster were to hit Winnipeg, would you be prepared? While no one wants to deal with a potential emergency, it is important to be prepared if one happens.

“You might not have access to water or electricity in the event of a natural disaster,” Jay Shaw, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service Assistant Chief of Emergency Management, said.

That’s why you should having a 72 hour emergency kit at home. It will allow you to be self-sufficient.

“Winnipeg has fantastic first responders however during a widespread emergency, they may not be able to get to you immediately,” Shaw said.

You could buy the kit through Red Cross or Salvation Army’s website or in person at stores around the city. The price ranges from around $50 to $100 for a one person kit.

It is also relatively inexpensive to build your own, especially since you likely already have many of the items.

Here is what every kit should have:

Water (Two litres per person per day for three days)
Non-perishable food including canned goods, energy bars and dried food.
Can opener
Flashlight
Candles
Waterproof matches
Batteries
Radio, either wind-up or battery powered
First aid kit
Sanitation supplies
Small tools
Charging cables for electronic devices
Extra keys for your home and vehicle
Cash in the form of small bills and change
A change of clothes
Important personal documents

You can then tailor your kit depending on your personal situation.

Here are a few more items you should consider adding:

Prescription medicine
Infant formula
Diapers
Toys or books
Equipment for people with disabilities
Pet food and water
Bug spray
Blankets
Garbage bags
Duct tape
A whistle
Hand sanitizer
Toiletries
Small tools
Small fuel operated stove and fuel

Where you store the kit is just as important as having one.

“Make sure to keep it somewhere easily accessible so you can find it fast,” Shaw said.

More information about how to prepare for an emergency in the City of Winnipeg.

Emergency and Safety

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