Page 7 - Sports Energy News, Cornwall, Issue No 132

www.sportsenergynews.com Issue #132 January 2024 7

Cornwall Fire Services with Deputy Chief Leighton Woods

It’s a new year — a time for resolutions and plan-making. You know what I think should be at the top
of your list going into 2024? Emergency preparedness!

It’s important that you and your family are safe in case of an emergency.
There are quite a lot of different things that may require you to have such a plan. The most obvious is, of course, weather-
related emergencies.
Let’s say there’s a large ice-storm - cough, cough - think of the one in 1998. Do you have enough food for you and your family
to last a few days? What about water or even candles? It’s hard going around when you can’t see anything.
The popular idea is to have enough supplies to last you and your household 72 hours — that’s three days.
What pairs well with weather emergencies? Well blankets, of course! Make sure to always have some handy.
If you happen to know that a storm is coming, stock up on battery-powered flashlights and radios — and don’t forget extra batteries.
You should also always have a first aid kit in your home. I sure hope that you never have to use it, but if you do, you’ll want to thank me!
Speaking of being prepared, how’s your home escape plan? If you don’t have one, now would be the best time to create it. It doesn’t take too long, and
can, quite literally, save your life!
Your plan should contain at least two exit routes — don’t just rely on the front door. It should also establish a plan on how to evacuate your pets and a
safe place where you and your family can meet.
To learn more on how you can create your very own escape plan, visit www.getprepared.gc.ca
In today’s day and age, it’s also best to be digitally prepared. By that I mean that you should always be careful to guard your information and
data. Change your passwords often and don’t fall for phishing emails. These are designed to trick users into downloading malware, sharing sensitive
information, or personal data (e.g., Social Security and credit card numbers, bank account numbers, or login credentials).