Tsunami Preparedness Week April 9 – 15, 2023

Tsunami Preparedness Week – Be Tsunami Smart

Tsunami Preparedness Week British Columbia Richmond BC Vancouver BC Vancouver Island

During Tsunami Preparedness Week in British Columbia, various activities are organized to educate people about the warning signs of a tsunami and the necessary steps to take in case of an emergency. These may include public information sessions, evacuation drills, and social media campaigns to spread awareness. It is important for everyone living in coastal areas to be prepared and informed about tsunamis, as they can strike without warning and have devastating effects on communities.

Understanding Tsunamis

What Are Tsunamis and how do they occur?

A tsunami is a series of ocean waves that are caused by large disturbances, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or meteor impacts, but the most common cause is an underwater earthquake. These waves can reach great heights and travel great distances, making them extremely dangerous to people living in coastal areas. The size and strength of a tsunami depend on several factors, including the magnitude of the earthquake and the depth and location of the underwater disturbance.

Tsunami Preparedness Week

Develop a Plan

Developing a tsunami preparedness plan is crucial to staying safe during a tsunami. The plan should include evacuation procedures, communication methods, and emergency supplies. All members of the household should be aware of the plan and understand what to do in the event of a tsunami.

Learn the Warning Signs

Learning the warning signs of a tsunami can save lives. Tsunami warning signs include strong earthquake activity, a sudden rise or fall in sea level, and a loud roar from the ocean. It’s essential to stay informed of any tsunami warnings and follow any instructions given by local authorities.

Emergency Supplies

It’s important to have a 72 Hour Emergency Kit with essential items such as food, water, portable power, communications, basic personal protection items, a First Aid Kit, and emergency contact information. The emergency kit should be easily accessible and ready to grab-n-go!

What to Do During a Tsunami

Evacuation Procedures

When a tsunami warning is issued, it’s essential to evacuate as quickly as possible. Follow any instructions given by local authorities and head to higher ground or inland immediately. Do not wait to see the tsunami or try to gather belongings.

Stay Safe Indoors

If evacuation is not possible, it’s essential to stay safe indoors. Move to higher floors or the roof of a sturdy building, and stay away from windows and doors. Do not use elevators and avoid rooms with heavy objects that could fall.

Stay Away from Shorelines and Low-Lying Areas

During a tsunami, it is essential to stay away from shorelines and low-lying areas. Tsunamis can cause dangerous and unpredictable currents, debris, and flooding, which can pose a significant risk to individuals. Even if you are a strong swimmer, it is best to avoid going near the water during a tsunami warning.

Stay Informed

It is important to stay informed about any tsunami warnings or alerts. Listen to local news and radio broadcasts, and follow any instructions given by local authorities. Keep your phone charged and within reach to receive any updates or emergency alerts.

Check for Injuries

After a tsunami, check yourself and others for injuries. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. If someone is injured, provide first aid if you are trained to do so, and call for emergency medical assistance.

Be Patient

Recovery after a tsunami can take time, so it is important to be patient. Listen to local authorities for updates on the situation and follow any instructions given. Do not return to your home or community until it is deemed safe to do so.

Developing a tsunami preparedness plan, learning warning signs, and evacuating to a safe location as quickly as possible are crucial steps to take to stay safe during a tsunami. After a tsunami, it is important to assess the damage, follow safety precautions, and be patient during the recovery process.

Community Support

You can play an active role in creating a safer and more resilient community. Remember, every action, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in saving lives during a tsunami. So, let’s come together and help spread the word about Tsunami Preparedness Week to ensure that our communities are prepared for any future tsunami disasters.

Check out the Tsunami Preparedness Week High Ground Hike 2023 community event.

Resources

Earthquake and Tsunami Guide from PreparedBC here.

Emergency Preparedness Plan for Law Offices

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Emergency Preparedness Plan for Law Offices

As a law office, an emergency preparedness plan is an important part of your business operations. Emergencies of all kinds, from natural disasters to medical emergencies will help you protect your team and your clients, and ensure that your business can continue to operate even in the face of adversity. Below is a case study of a hypothetical scenario of an emergency situation and the life-saving plan of action.

Automated External Defibrillator AED

Case Study: Emergency Situation

The Situation:

It was a typical day at the law offices of JJ & Associates. The employees were working hard, and clients were coming and going. Suddenly, the receptionist received a call from one of the clients. The client, a middle-aged man, sounded panicked and distressed.

“I need help! My chest hurts, and I’m having trouble breathing,” he exclaimed.

The receptionist immediately called for help and notified the senior partners in the office. Everyone quickly realized that the situation was serious, and they needed to act fast.

The AED – Automated External Defibrillator

The Medical Response Plan:

Fortunately, the law office had an automated external defibrillator (AED) , including a portable emergency oxygen unit. One of the associates, who has first aid training, grabbed the kits and rushed to the client’s location.

When he arrived, he found the client lying on the floor, gasping for breath. The associate quickly assessed the situation and realized that the client was having a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).

The SOS Emergency Oxygen Unit

Emergency First Aid:

He gave the client aspirin to help prevent blood clotting, and then he applied the Automated External Defibrillator to shock the client’s heart back into a regular rhythm. The associate, then adminisitered the emergency oxygen to aid in stablization and continued to monitor the client’s vital signs and provided reassurance until the paramedics arrived.

Thanks to the quick thinking and actions of the law office associate, the client was able to receive life-saving first aid in the crucial moments before the paramedics arrived. The client was rushed to the hospital and received the medical attention he needed to recover.

First Aid Training

The Lesson:

The benefits of having an emergency plan in the office were clear. The quick response time and immediate access to an automated external defibrillator (AED) and emergency oxygen, ensured that the client received the help he needed in a timely manner. This not only saved his life but also prevented potential long-term damage to his health.

The incident served as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for any emergency situation. With the right training and equipment, any workplace can be ready to respond to medical emergencies and potentially save lives.

The Resource:

First Aid Basics Canada (online training course)

Automated External Defibrillator AED
Inquire with us about ordering an AED for your business.

We offer the best AED units in the industry, ZOLL, Philips and Cardiac Science. We also offer replacement and maintenance parts.

5 Pillars of Emergency Preparedness

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The 5 Pillars of Emergency Preparedness

We understand that preparing your family or your business to survive a disaster or everyday emergency is an important aspect of any emergency plan. Emergencies or disasters can occur at any time and can greatly displace a family or impact a business’s ability to operate. It is essential to have a solid plan in place to help minimize injury, fatalities or damage and keep your family or your business prepared and safe at all times.

Our emergency preparedness plan is based on the “5 Pillars of Emergency Preparedness” philosophy. This entails having a 72-hour Emergency Kit, a First Aid Kit, a portable Emergency Oxygen Unit, First Aid Training, and an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on hand.

72hr Emergency Kit

The SOS 72hr Emergency Kit is a convenient grab-and-go backpack kit that’s perfect for emergencies. It covers six crucial areas of preparedness, like food, water, light, heat, emergency communication, and sanitation. With this kit, you’ll be
self-sufficient for the first 72 hours (that’s three whole days!) of any emergency. You’ll have everything you need to stay chill, safe, and comfy in a crisis. It’s our #1 recommended kit for any emergency situation.

For 1 person to a family of 4 we have you covered:

1 Person 72hr Emergency Kit
2 Person 72hr Emergency Kit
4 Person 72hr Emergency Kit

First Aid Kits

It is essential to always have a first aid kit on hand, as accidents and emergencies can happen unexpectedly and at any time. A well-stocked first aid kit can provide crucial medical assistance in the event of an injury or illness until professional medical help arrives. It can help prevent further injury, reduce the risk of infection, and even save a life. Whether you are at home, in the office, or traveling, having a first aid kit within reach is an important safety measure.

Our SOS First Aid Kits are ready to grab-n-go. We offer a variety of sizes for individuals, multi-family member households and specialize in OHS Workplace compliant First Aid Kits. We also customize for businesses, contact us for details.

OHS Workplace First Aid Kits
First Aid Kit – Automobile
First Aid Kit – Sports
First Aid Kit – 1 Person Fanny
First Aid Kit – General Purpose

The SOS Emergency Oxygen Unit

It is imperative to have an emergency oxygen unit both in the workplace and at home to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals in case of unexpected emergencies. While it is a common sight in workplaces, having an emergency oxygen unit at home can prove to be equally valuable in a variety of situations.

Our Emergency Oxygen Unit is the most reliable, simple and advanced emergency oxygen unit available on the market. You can count on our emergency oxygen unit to perform reliably when you need it most, whether you’re facing a medical emergency or crisis situation. It’s designed to be there for you with a fail-safe design that ensures it’s always ready to go.

AED – Automated External Defibrillator

Automated External Defibrillators, or AEDs for short, are devices that can save lives during sudden cardiac arrests. They are portable, user-friendly devices that analyze a person’s heart rhythm and can deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat.

The key to successfully using an AED is to act quickly, as every minute counts during a cardiac arrest. By delivering a shock within the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest, the chances of survival can be significantly increased. AEDs are an essential tool in the fight against sudden cardiac arrest and have the potential to save countless lives.

Inquire with us about ordering one for your business.

We offer the best AED units in the industry, ZOLL, Philips and Cardiac Science. We also offer replacement and maintenance parts.

First Aid Training

First Aid training is essential for anyone who wants to be prepared to respond to emergencies. Whether it’s a minor cut or a life-threatening injury, knowing how to provide the correct first aid can make a huge difference in someone’s recovery. In fact, in many emergency situations, providing prompt and effective first aid can be the difference between life and death.

Our First Aid Training supports Workplace OHS requirements

First Aid Basics Canada (online training course)

Compliance
Health & Safety
Harassment Prevention
Wellness

72 Hour Emergency Kit Checklist

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The 72 Hour Emergency Kit Checklist

Are you prepared for a natural disaster or emergency situation? Learn why British Columbians need a 72 hour emergency kit and what to include in it.

British Columbia is known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning natural beauty, and outdoor recreation opportunities. However, the province is also prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires, floods, and severe storms. These disasters can strike without warning, leaving families and communities vulnerable and in need of emergency assistance.

The best way to prepare for these situations is to have a 72-hour emergency kit. In this article, we will explore why British Columbians need a 72-hour emergency kit, what to include in it, and how it can save lives in times of crisis.

Why British Columbians Need a 72 Hour Emergency Kit:

Natural Disasters in British Columbia:

British Columbia is prone to a variety of natural disasters, including earthquakes, wildfires, floods, and severe storms. These disasters can strike without warning, leaving communities devastated and in need of assistance.

Importance of Preparedness:

By being prepared for emergencies, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones in times of crisis. Having an emergency kit can help ensure that you have the necessary supplies and resources to survive until help arrives.

Emergency Services May Be Delayed:

During a natural disaster or emergency situation, emergency services may be delayed or overwhelmed. Having an emergency kit can help ensure that you have the necessary supplies to survive until help arrives.

To Avoid Scrambling for Supplies:

In the aftermath of a disaster, essential supplies such as food, water, and medical supplies can quickly become scarce. By having an emergency kit, you can avoid scrambling for supplies and focus on staying safe and secure.

What Should Be Included in Your Emergency Kit?

Water and Food Supplies:

Be sure to include at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. You should also include non-perishable food items such as canned goods, non thirst provoking food rations, and dried fruit.

First Aid Kit and Medications:

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential in an emergency situation. Be sure to include essential medications, bandages, antiseptics, and other medical supplies.

Personal Hygiene Supplies:

In addition to food and water, you should also include personal hygiene supplies such as toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.

Important Documents and Emergency Cash:

Be sure to include copies of important documents such as birth certificates, passports, and insurance policies. You should also include emergency cash in case ATMs and credit card machines are not functioning.

Warm Clothing and Shelter:

In case of cold weather, be sure to include warm clothing such as jackets, blankets, and hats. If you are forced to evacuate, you may also need to include a tent or other shelter.

Lighting and Communication Tools:

Be sure to include flashlights, batteries, and a portable radio to stay informed of emergency alerts and updates.

Importance of Emergency Preparedness:

Saves Lives:

In emergency situations, every second counts. By being prepared, you can help save lives and ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones.

Reduces Panic and Anxiety:

In the event of an emergency, panic and anxiety can make a bad situation worse. By being prepared and having a plan, you can reduce stress and anxiety and increase your chances of survival.

Speeds Up Recovery and Reconstruction:

Being prepared for an emergency can help speed up the recovery and reconstruction process. By having the necessary supplies and resources, you can begin rebuilding your life more quickly.

How to Prepare for Emergencies: Tips and Tricks

Make a Plan:

Create a family emergency plan that includes a meeting place, emergency contacts, and a communication plan.

Stock Up on Supplies:

Be sure to have at least a 72-hour emergency kit and consider storing additional supplies such as extra food and water.

Stay Informed:

Stay informed of emergency alerts and updates by signing up for alerts and monitoring the news.

Learn Basic First Aid and Survival Skills:

Take a first aid and CPR course, learn how to use an AED and deploy the DRSABCD Action Plan. Learn basic survival skills such as how to start a fire and build a shelter.

Frequently Asked Questions about Emergency Kits:

How Long Should I Prepare for?

Emergency management in British Columbia recommend having at least a 72-hour emergency kit, but it’s a good idea to prepare for longer in case of extended power outages or other disruptions.

What Should I Include in My First Aid Kit?

Your first aid kit should include essential medications, bandages, antiseptics, and other medical supplies.

How Much Water Should I Store?

Experts recommend storing at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.

Can I Use Tap Water in My Emergency Kit?

If tap water is not available or safe to drink, you can treat it with purification tablets or by boiling it.

What Should I Do If I Have Pets?

Be sure to include food, water, and other supplies for your pets in your emergency kit. You should also have a plan for how to care for them during an emergency.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Natural disasters and emergencies can strike without warning, leaving families and communities vulnerable and in need of emergency assistance. By having a 72-hour emergency kit and being prepared, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Don’t wait until it’s too late – start preparing your emergency kit today. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in times of crisis.

Where Emergency kits can be important.

Office Buildings, Schools & Daycares, Retail Stores, Government Buildings, Banks, Lawyer Firms, Accountant Offices, Personal & Work Vehicles etc.

By storing your emergency kit in a designated area that is easily accessible to all employees or staff, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of everyone during an emergency.

Your 72 Hour Emergency Kit Checklist:

Emergency Water and Food Supplies

First Aid Kit and Medications

Personal Hygiene Supplies

Personal Protection Equipment

Emergency Shelter and Blankets

Lighting and Signaling

Emergency Radio with Portable Power Charger

Emergency Multi-Tool

Preparing British Columbia for a Massive Earthquake

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Preparing British Columbia for a Massive Earthquake: Lessons from the Earthquake that Rocked Turkey and Syria

The earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria serves as a valuable lesson for British Columbia in terms of emergency preparedness and disaster management. The event highlights the importance of being prepared for such disasters and the consequences of not being prepared.

For Individuals and Families: What did we learn?

The importance of having an emergency plan: Having an emergency plan in place is crucial for families during the aftermath of a deadly earthquake. This plan should include meeting places for family members, emergency contact information, and a plan for how to communicate in case of an earthquake.
The need for emergency supplies: Having a well-stocked Emergency Kit can help families during and after an earthquake. This kit should include food, water, first aid supplies, and other essentials that can help sustain a family for at least 72 hours per person.
The importance of earthquake insurance: After a deadly earthquake, many families may find themselves without a home or with significant damage to their property. Earthquake insurance can provide financial support to help families rebuild their lives.
The value of community support: Communities can come together during and after a disaster to support each other and provide essential resources and services. Families should be familiar with local community organizations and resources that can help in the aftermath of an earthquake.
The need for mental health support: The aftermath of a deadly earthquake can be traumatic and cause significant stress and anxiety for families. It’s essential to address mental health needs and provide support to those who are struggling. This may include counseling, support groups, and other resources that can help families cope with the emotional impact of the disaster.

Take action: How will you and your family take action towards preparedness? Start with a 72hr Emergency Kit here

For Businesses: What did we learn?

Disaster management and preparedness are crucial in reducing the impact of earthquakes. This includes measures such as evacuation plans, risk assessment, communication strategies, and emergency response plans. The government, private organizations, and citizens must work together to ensure that the region is prepared for a massive earthquake.

Steps to be taken to Prepare for a Massive Earthquake

Conducting Regular Risk Assessments: Regular risk assessments should be conducted to identify the vulnerable areas and the measures that need to be taken to reduce the impact of an earthquake.
Strengthening of Buildings: The government should encourage the use of seismic-resistant construction techniques and retrofitting of existing buildings to make them more resilient to earthquakes.
Evacuation and Emergency Response Plans: Evacuation plans should be in place for the employees, and emergency response plans should be formulated to ensure a quick response in case of a disaster.
Awareness and Education: The public should be made aware of the risk of earthquakes and the measures they can take to reduce the impact. Regular drills and training sessions should be conducted to educate the public on the importance of preparedness.
Investment in Technology: The government should invest in technology such as early warning systems to provide advance warning of earthquakes and to mitigate the damage.

Taking action: Provincial Earthquake Exercise, The Coastal Response 2023

Friday, February 7th, saw the beginning of the large-scale emergency preparedness program named ‘Coastal Response 2023’, which kicked off with a simulated warning sent out by British Columbia’s Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness to all taking part in the simulations.
Approximately 50 emergency operations centers in British Columbia are carrying out a drill this week to replicate a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that would impact the Lower Mainland region.

Starting four days after the simulated earthquake scenario off the coast of Richmond and Tsawwassen, an emergency preparedness exercise will be conducted by the government. This test aims to assess their overall readiness, specifically honing in on co-ordination and communication among agencies.

*See original article here

It’s Heart Month

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Heart Health: The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle

Happy Heart Month Heart disease is a leading cause of death in Canada, with an estimated 35,000 cardiac arrests occurring each year. February is designated as Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of heart health and the steps we can take to protect ourselves.

Understanding Heart Disease

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. These conditions can lead to heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular events. Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diet.

The Benefits of a Healthy Lifestyle

Leading a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of heart disease. By making healthy choices, you can help keep your heart and blood vessels healthy, reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.

A healthy lifestyle includes:

Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars
Maintaining a healthy weight
Being physically active
Not smoking
Limiting alcohol consumption

The Importance of Regular Exercise

Physical activity is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve your heart health. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, every day. You can also add strength training to your routine to improve your overall heart health.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is also essential for heart health. Eating a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, a diet that is high in salt, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars can increase the risk of heart disease.

The Importance of Monitoring Your Heart Health

Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor your heart health and identify any potential risks early. This includes monitoring your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other important markers. If you have a family history of heart disease or other risk factors, your healthcare provider may recommend additional screening or lifestyle changes to reduce your risk.

Taking care of your heart is crucial for a long and healthy life. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, monitoring your heart health, and seeking medical advice as needed, you can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve your overall well-being.

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