People Most Vulnerable Benefit from Support System

Creating a network of friends, neighbours and family that can be called upon to help in an emergency is one way people who may be vulnerable can prepare before an emergency strikes.

Knowing there are people to rely on can reduce anxiety. Those who may be in more vulnerable situations should discuss concerns with friends and co-workers and explain that extra assistance may be needed during an emergency. It's important to have a team in place at both work and home.

Joanne Lawlor, manager of community development for the Nova Scotia Red Cross, recommends that people who may be vulnerable during an emergency have a support system they can tap into. "How can you help yourself is a question everyone should ask. Depending on the situation, emergency personnel may not be available immediately. During an emergency situation, the Red Cross appeals to everyone to check on their neighbours," said Ms. Lawlor. "If you are asked to evacuate, it's comforting to know that someone will be there to help."

There are a number of organizations that become involved in an emergency response. However, many may not able to provide one-on- one assistance immediately. That's why it's vital that everyone have an emergency plan in place and ready to go.

The plan should include a kit of emergency supplies, an emergency contact list including names, addresses and telephone numbers of doctors, along with a detailed description of current medications.

This kit should contain supplies such as:

• a flashlight with extra batteries;
• a portable, battery-operated radio with extra batteries;
• emergency food and bottled water;
• a first aid kit;
• an extra supply of any medications;
• blankets or sleeping bags for warmth;
• cash and credit cards;
• a change of clothes and shoes.

Medical alert bracelets or tags should be worn at all times so emergency personnel have correct information about any medical conditions. Persons with a hearing, sight, speech or language disability should discuss with their team other ways to communicate during emergency situations. Alternate ways to communicate could include a writing pad and pencils and using a flashlight to signal a location. Whistles, bells and hanging a brightly coloured sheet outside can also be used as signals.

Anyone with a seeing or hearing guide dog should include extra food, water and supplies for the animal as part of the emergency kit. It's also valuable to provide a member of the team with a house key and have someone check in if the phone lines go down.

Family and friends should be aware of any special medical equipment, how it operates and who to contact if there are problems. If access to special medical facilities will be necessary, find out about alternate locations and include this information in the kit.

Craig MacLaughlan, executive director of the Nova Scotia Emergency Measures Organization, says a support network of neighbours is something all Nova Scotians can establish. "Everyone should put together a plan that is easy to follow and ensures your basic safety needs are met," said Mr. MacLaughlan. "Offer assistance to others in your area. They may need help with transportation to a shelter and may be reluctant to ask for help. Neighbours helping neighbours is what it's all about."

Prepare Now! Learn How! is the theme of Emergency Preparedness Week, which takes place across the country May 1-7.

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit the Nova Scotia Emergency Measures Organization's website at www.gov.ns.ca/emo