The County of Grande Prairie is once again encouraging residents to prepare emergency kits now that fire season is officially underway.
Right now, Alberta Wildfire has listed the Grande Prairie Forest Area as being “Low” when it comes to wildfire danger, and no fires are actively burning in the area as of March 10th.
Still, the county says even in winter, wildfires remain a concern, so preparing now could prove to be helpful by the time wildfire risks become more serious.
Preparing an emergency kit
According to the county, kits should include a 72-hour supply of water and electrolytes, a good supply of foods like canned or dried goods, medical supplies, important documents like birth certificates and passports, a first aid kit, and sanitation supplies like hand sanitizer. The province adds that updating supplies and including seasonal items can be helpful as well.
Officials suggest using the change in seasons as a reminder to check your supplies and kits to ensure food and medications aren’t expired, personal documents are up to date, and batteries are charged.
Additionally, the province says you should also consider seasonal conditions when updating kits, like including items such as bug spray and sunscreen in the spring, and warm clothing and extra blankets in the fall.
Animals and livestock
The province offers checklists for preparing emergency kits for both pets and farm animals; however, in the case of an evacuation, officials maintain that having a plan is the best way to ensure an easy trip.
