Jan 27th, 2025

Ottawa Public Health: Be Ready for an Emergency 

Are you ready for the next emergency? It’s never too late to start preparing, and Ottawa’s Office of Emergency Management, in collaboration with Ottawa Public Health, is here to help! There are three simple steps to follow: 

1. Know the risks. Ottawa is a large city prone to different hazards. It is important to know the risks in your area, which could include flooding and power outages, among others.  

2. Make a plan. During an emergency, it can be not easy to think clearly. Having an emergency plan will help you to remain calm and focused. You may be without power for an extended period or be asked to evacuate your home. Your plan should include: 

• An emergency meeting place, like a relative’s or friend’s home in a different part of the city.  

• A list of emergency contacts.  

• Any additional health needs (e.g., a list of prescriptions and any assistive devices).  

• Options for your pets. 

Also, an important part of planning for emergencies is creating community connections.  Start by connecting with your neighbours, joining local groups, or sharing resources. These actions will help grow your support network so you’ll have the help you need during emergencies.  

3. Prepare an emergency kit. An emergency kit contains the supplies you need to sustain yourself and the members of your household for at least 72 hours. The following types of kits are recommended:  

• A basic grab-and-go kit that should contain water (at least two litres per person per day), non-perishable foods (e.g., energy bars), a flashlight, a portable charger/power bank, small amounts of cash, and important papers (identification).  

• A shelter-in-place/evacuation kit that is a larger grab-and-go kit – it should contain two additional litres of water per person per day, enough non-perishable food for several days, a first aid kit, bedding, clothing, and additional portable charger power banks and/or a portable generator. 

• A vehicle kit that can be kept in your vehicle. It should contain a blanket, flashlight, first aid kit, non-perishable food, and water. 

Make sure to practice your plan!  Please also consider people in your community who may need your help, such as those living alone. 

For more information on emergency preparedness, including checklists, visit ottawa.ca/AreYouReady or email AreYou.Ready@ottawa.ca. Also, consult ottawapublichealth.ca for additional support and health-related information.