Prepare for an Emergency

• Exit routes from your home
• A meeting place close to home
• A meeting place outside of town
• A list of important contacts
• A plan for pets

Choose:

• One nearby location
• One outside of Westlock

• Family members
• Neighbours
• Out-of-area contact. During an emergency, local phone lines and networks can become overloaded. It is often easier to make long-distance calls than local ones. An out-of-area contact can act as a central point of communication for your household.

• Write down important phone numbers
• Keep a printed copy
• Ensure everyone knows where to find it

Choose someone outside of the community to help reconnect your household. During an emergency, local phone lines and networks can become overloaded. It is often easier to make long-distance calls than local ones. An out-of-area contact can act as a central point of communication for your household.

• Identify meeting locations
• Make sure everyone understands the plan

Include:

• Water (4L per person per day)
• Non-perishable food
• Flashlight & batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications
• Radio

Download 72-Hour Kit Checklist here.

When every minute counts, this kit helps you leave quickly with the essentials you need.

Include:

• ID and important documents
• Medications
• Phone charger
• Basic clothing
• Personal items (glasses, etc.)

Download Grab & Go Checklist here.

Keep a kit in your vehicle so you’re prepared for unexpected situations, especially during travel or winter conditions.

Include:

• Blanket and warm clothing
• Booster cables
• Shovel
• Flashlight
• Snacks and water
• Phone charger

Download Vehicle Kit Checklist here.

Make sure your pets are included in your emergency plans with the supplies they need to stay safe and comfortable.

Include:

• Food and water
• Leash or carrier
• Medications
• ID and records

Download Pet Kit Checklist here.

In an evacuation, it’s easy to forget important or irreplaceable items—use this list to plan ahead.

Include:

• Important documents
• Photos and keepsakes
• Hard drives / backups
• Jewelry

Download Priceless Items Checklist here.

Keep it easy to access
Store your kit in a location that is quick to grab, such as near your main entrance or in a central area of your home.

Use a durable container
A waterproof bin or sturdy bag will help protect your supplies and keep everything together.

Create multiple kits
Consider having smaller kits in your vehicle or workplace in case you are not at home when an emergency occurs.

Check and update regularly
Review your kit at least once a year to replace expired items, update documents, and adjust for seasonal needs.

Emergency kits should be reviewed regularly to make sure everything is ready when you need it.

Review your kit at least twice a year
A simple way to remember is when you change your clocks in the spring and fall.

Check that items are in working order
Test flashlights, replace batteries, and ensure equipment is functioning properly.

Replace expired supplies
Refresh food, water, and medications as needed.

Update your kit as your needs change
Adjust for seasonal conditions and any changes in your household.

Wildfires can spread quickly and unpredictably, especially during hot, dry, and windy conditions.

What to do:

• Monitor Alberta Emergency Alerts, Alberta Wildfires, and local updates
• Be ready to evacuate on short notice
• Keep you vehicle fueled during wildfire season

Flooding can occur from heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or rising water levels, causing damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure.

What to do:

• Avoid driving through flooded roads
• Move valuables and important documents to higher areas
• Follow evacuation instructions from authorities

Severe weather includes thunderstorms, strong winds, blizzards, and hail that can create dangerous conditions.

What to do:

• Stay indoors during warnings
• Avoid unnecessary travel
• Secure outdoor items that could be blown away

Hazardous material incidents can involve spills or releases of chemicals from vehicles, trains, or nearby facilities.

What to do:

• Follow official instructions immediately
• Shelter in place if directed (close windows, doors, and vents)
• Avoid the affected area

Power and water outages can happen due to severe weather, equipment failure, or other emergencies.

What to do:

• Keep flashlights and backup lighting ready
• Store at least 72 hours of drinking water
• Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible

Pets are part of your household and should be included in your emergency plan.

What to consider:

• Plan for transportation (carrier, leash, crate)
• Have enough food, water, and supplies for at least 72 hours
• Keep vaccination records and ID accessible
• Ensure pets have proper identification (tags or microchip)

Tip: Not all reception centres or accommodations accept pets. Identify pet-friendly options in advance.

Some individuals may need additional support during an emergency, including seniors, people with disabilities, or those with medical needs.

What to consider:

• Ensure medications and medical supplies are readily available
• Keep a list of medical conditions and emergency contacts
• Plan for mobility or accessibility needs
• Identify a support person who can assist if needed

Tip: Check in on neighbours, friends, or family members who may need extra help during an emergency.

Childcare providers should have clear plans in place to keep children safe and communicate with families during an emergency.

What to consider:

• Maintain up-to-date emergency contact information for all children
• Have a clear evacuation and reunification plan
• Keep emergency supplies accessible
• Ensure staff are familiar with emergency procedures

Tip:  Communicate your emergency plan with parents or guardians so they know what to expect.