As storm season continues, residents are being reminded of the importance of having a 72-hour emergency kit ready.
A recent SteinbachOnline poll revealed that 63.95 per cent of respondents either don’t have a kit or haven’t even thought about putting one together.
Steinbach Fire Chief Kel Toews says that statistic does not come as a surprise.
“Everyone should have one, but it doesn't surprise me that a lot of people don't have it just because it's the ‘It won't happen to me’ attitude and ‘We haven't had a disaster here, so why are we going to start now?’ A bit of complacency, so it doesn't really surprise me.”
With recent tornadoes in North Dakota, Toews says the threat hitting close to home might spark some action.
“It may have got some people to get their kit and get their kit started, but people forget pretty easily and that's why we've got to keep reminding them that it's a smart thing to have a 72-hour kit. It's a matter of time and we could have a have a situation where you need one.”
His biggest concern is that many are simply unprepared.
“You're supposed to be self-sufficient for three days and if you're not prepared for that, you put yourself in a situation that could compromise your health, and could put you in danger, so you should be ready again for 72-hours.”
Toews says preparing does not mean you need to stockpile supplies.
“That doesn't mean that you've got to have a feast and big meals and all the water you'll ever need. It's small amounts, but you should be ready to stick it out for 72 hours.”
He notes some people might feel anxious or overwhelmed when thinking about disasters or what to include in their kits.
“If you go online and look at some of the suggestions for 72-hour kits, some of them are quite large that you almost need a shed to put all this stuff in.”
Instead, Toews recommends starting out small.
“Start with the basics, water, food, make sure the food is nonperishable, so you'll probably need a can opener, a flashlight, a battery powered or a wind-up type of flashlight, radio, and basic first aid kit.”
He says that each kit should be built according to your needs.
“Don't forget medications. If you have an animal, you've got to take that into account. You have to have sort of a 72-hour kit for your animal. But yeah, start small. It doesn't have to be a huge thing to start off with.”
A complete list of recommended items for a basic emergency kit can be found on the City of Steinbach’s website at www.steinbach.ca/residents/emergency-plans.