When a natural disaster such as a wildfire or flood strikes, people are often forced to stay in their homes or evacuate immediately.
“Everyone should make an emergency plan for their households—that includes an evacuation plan for themselves, their family members and their pets—and practice that plan,” says Anne Morgenstern, director, Emergency Response with Interior Health. “Many people feel that they will be able to throw a plan together in the moment or rely on family or other supports.
“But the reality is that these events are very stressful and dynamic and require quick decisions and actions. People can easily become overwhelmed, which can result in delays or missed information that can leave them in dangerous situations.”
Emergency preparation is particularly important for seniors, who may need extra assistance in evacuating from their residence.
Learn how you can take steps to prepare for a natural disaster or emergency evacuation. Some of the information listed below comes from Prepared BC, B.C.’s emergency preparedness education program.
“Caring for yourself and/or for a loved one can be hard - don’t let a natural disaster and evacuation add to this. Let’s be prepared,” adds Joanna Harrison, Executive Director of Seniors Specialized Care Services with Interior Health.
Read on to learn how seniors can prepare for a natural disaster or emergency evacuation. Some of the information listed below comes from Prepared BC, British Columbia’s emergency preparedness education program.
