Tuesday, September 22, 2009

The 72 hour rule

The prospect of becoming stranded in your home for a period of time with limited resources is an all-too-real scenario. Are you ready for such a possibility? The Canadian government warns that every Canadian homeowner should equip their residence with sufficient supplies to last every member of your household for a period of 72 hours without power or tap water.
Here’s a list of the provisions you’re recommended to have at the ready in an easy to find, easy to carry, pre-packaged emergency kit:
• Water – at least two litres of water per person per day. Include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order
• Food that won’t spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (remember to replace the food and water once a year)
• Manual can-opener
• Flashlight and batteries
• Candles and matches or lighter (remember to place candles in sturdy containers and to put them out before going to sleep)
• Battery-powered or wind-up radio (and extra batteries)
• First aid kit
• Special items such as prescription medications, infant formula and equipment for people with disabilities
• Extra keys for your car and house
• Some cash in smaller bills, such as $10 bills and change for payphones
• A copy of your emergency plan and contact information
Want more information about how to prepare your home and your family for a possible emergency? Visit http://www.getprepared.ca/kit/basic_e.asp
Promoting safe homes and safe neighbourhoods is just one of the many ways that local Coldwell Banker® companies and their sales professionals put something back into the communities where they do business. With a little planning, your Home Sweet Home can also be a Home Safe Home!

Gary Reed gary@garyreed.org http://www.garyreed.org Coldwell Banker Home & Family Realty Brokerage 1515 Rebecca Street, Unit 21 
Oakville, Ontario
Canada
L6L 5G8
1-800-695-7283 905-825-7777 905-825-3593 (Fax)