To mark Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C. (May 1-7), the Province reminds British Columbians to have an emergency kit that will allow their family to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours following an emergency.

Having an emergency kit is one of the most important things a family can do to ensure their well-being in the event of an emergency like an earthquake or major flooding.

What you need in a basic home emergency kit:

* Water - two litres of water per person per day (include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order).

* Food - canned food, energy bars and dried foods that will not spoil (Remember to replace the food and water once a year).

* Manual can opener.

* Flashlight and batteries.

* Battery powered or wind-up radio (and extra batteries).

* First aid kit.

* Special needs items - prescription medications, infant formula or equipment for people with disabilities.

* Extra keys for your car and house.

* Cash - include smaller bills, such as $10 bills (travellers' cheques are also useful) and change for payphones.

* Emergency plan - include a copy of it and ensure it contains in-town and out-of-town contact information.

* A copy of important documents - birth certificate, passport, care card, insurance, photos of family members.

* Pet food.

Some recommended items:

* A change of clothing and footwear for each household member.

* Sleeping bag or warm (foil) blanket for each household member.

* A whistle (in case you need to attract attention).

* Garbage bags for personal sanitation.

* Toilet paper and other personal care supplies.

* Safety gloves.

* Basic tools (hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, fasteners, work gloves).

* Small fuel-driven stove and fuel (follow manufacturer's directions and store properly).

* Two additional litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning.

In addition to the above home kit, it's also important to have a 'Grab & Go Kit' that is light and portable in case you have to leave your home with little or no notice.

Suggested items for this kit can be found here: http://www.pep.bc.ca/hazard_preparedness/personal_preparedness.html

Quick Facts:

Disaster preparedness kits can be purchased through the Canadian Red Cross website: www.redcross.ca

Learn More:

* To learn more about how you can be prepared for a disaster, visit the Emergency Management BC website at www.pep.bc.ca and the Public Safety Canada website at: www.getprepared.gc.ca

* For more information on emergency social services, including how to volunteer in your community, visit: www.ess.bc.ca

Contact:

Media Relations

Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General

250 356-6961

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect