Safety First in District 13

With another fire season upon us, it's important to note the personal responsibility all of us have in ensuring our own safety, and the safety of our community. There is much focus on egress, and while the importance of that cannot be overstated, it must not take away from the steps we can, and absolutely should, be taking today. So, what should you do?

1. Get A FireSmart Assessment: 

I previously wrote an article on FireSmart here. FireSmart assessments are free, and the recommended actions can have a big impact on how you, your home, and your community by increasing neighbourhood resilience to wildfire and minimize its negative impacts. Get your home assessed, and get your community involved.

2. Sign up for HFXAlert:

HFXAlert (link here) can deliver information (including evacuation directions) in the event of an emergency. The service takes less than a minute to sign up for, and it is a game-changer for information delivery. Consider the HFXAlert the 'Source of Truth' and receive real-time emergency and evacuation information.  It will also be the first and primary means of public engagement and information delivery, as outlined in the Emergency Management Communications Strategy.

3. Optionally, Sign up for the Voluntary Vulnerable Persons Registry:

The VVPR registry is a voluntary, self-referral list for those who may require assistance and do not have 24hr support. Consider signing up here or call 311.

4. Make an Emergency Plan

Planning for an emergency and being prepared can change your outcome, so be prepared. This can include:

• Making an Emergency Plan
• Create a 'Go Bag' in case you are called to evacuate within 30 minutes (including copies of documents, medications, and anything else you or your pet will need in an emergency), and a disaster kit.
• You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours. Learn how to be prepared here.

• NSGov also has tips on flood preparation here. There is more great information on canada.gc.ca/get-prepared.

   

5. Check Before You Burn if you are thinking of having a fire:

Use Before You Burn to see the current burning restrictions in your area, and keep your community safe. Burning outside of allowed times can also result in a $25000 fine.