This week marks Emergency Preparedness Week in the province with the theme "Be Prepared. Know Your Risks."

The week's purpose is to encourage everyone to understand the dangers of where they live and work and to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Courtney Tremblay, manager of the public education program for the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, said it is important for everyone to have an emergency kit with supplies that will last them up to three days.

“It’s one of those things where you don’t know you will need that emergency kit until it’s too late, so it’s important to have those kinds of things ready."

The kit should also include four liters of drinking water per person per day, as well as nonperishable food items such as soup, cereal, crackers, and a can opener. Tremblay added that these items should be checked yearly and replaced as necessary.

She noted that the needs of each family are different. Items to consider include prescription medicine, prescription glasses, formula and diapers, and food, water, and medication for pets.

“As far as equipment, you should have a flashlight with batteries, and possibly a battery-operated radio if possible.”

Beyond supplies, Tremblay emphasized the importance of having an evacuation plan and a communication plan.

She noted that having a clear and concise plan that everyone in your family understands can be instrumental in keeping your family safe and calm.

“There’s not always going to be a situation where in the immediate evacuation that you’re all together in the same place,” said Tremblay. “It’s important to know that if you do get evacuated, that everyone in your family knows the plan and where the other people are going to be and how to contact those people.”

Tremblay suggested ensuring your family has two safe locations to go—one closer to home and one farther away.

“Having that kind of forethought to make sure that you're taking care of your family in a future situation that is unknown right now, and making sure that you take that really seriously, that something could happen,” said Tremblay.

Tremblay also noted that unpredictable weather conditions and wildfires can complicate situations, but knowing who your local authorities are and keeping their contact information on hand can help make an unforeseen situation less intimidating.