In an emergency situation, you will need some basics. You may have to manage without electricity or running water. It is your responsibility to gather the basic items and to figure out what your family will need to manage on its own at home for at least 72 hours.

Make sure that your kit is easy to carry (backpack, travel bag or suitcase on rollers), and place it in a readily accessible spot, such as the front hall closet. Make sure that everyone in your family knows where it is. If necessary, split the items among more than one bag, suitcase or bin to make them easier to carry.

Basic emergency kit

• water – at least two liters per person per day, being sure to use smaller bottles that will be easier to carry in case you have to evacuate;
• non perishable food – plan enough per person per day (remember to replace the food and water once a year);
• manual can opener;
• wind-up or battery-powered flashlight (and extra batteries);
• wind-up or battery-powered radio (and extra batteries);
• first aid kit;
• spare keys for the car and house;
• cash in smaller bills, such as $10 bills and coins;
• emergency plan including coordinates of the people to be contacted;
• blankets; candles;
• lighter and/or matches; and
• a whistle – to signal your location, if necessary.

Have at hand

• credit and debit cards;
• ID – driver's licence, health insurance, passport;
• cell or mobile phones and chargers;
• special items such as prescription medication, baby formula and equipment for persons with special needs; and
• change of clothing.

Emergency kit for the car

When winter comes knocking at the door, there is always a risk of being stranded in your car (slippery roads or whiteout conditions, reduced visibility, extreme cold, etc.).

Before you get behind the wheel, be sure that you are ready for any eventuality, namely by having an emergency kit in your car. The following are a few useful tips:

• If you get stuck in a snow storm or a snow bank, remain calm.
• Avoid exhausting yourself and unnecessarily exposing yourself to the cold. Remain in the car. That way you won't get lost, and you'll be safely sheltered.
• Let fresh air into the car by opening a window on the side that is away from the wind. Run the engine as little as possible.
• Beware of carbon monoxide, and make sure that your exhaust pipe is not obstructed by snow. If possible, use a candle in a deep metal container to heat the car instead of using the car's heater.
• Set up a warning lantern or flares to make your car visible.
• Turn on the overhead light. Headlights or warning lights kept on over a very long period could wear out the battery.
• Move your hands, feet and arms to keep your blood circulating, and stay awake.
• Watch for other cars and emergency responders.
• Dress warmly and try to keep your clothes dry.

What should you put in your winter emergency car kit?

Your basic emergency car kit should contain the following items:

• food – non perishables, such as energy bars;
• water – plastic bottles that won't break if they freeze (replace them every six months);
• a blanket;
• a change of clothing and shoes/boots;
• a first-aid kit and a knife to cut the seatbelt;
• a small shovel, ice scraper and snow brush;
• a candle in a deep metal container and matches;
• a hand crank flashlight;
• a whistle – to attract attention if necessary;
• road maps; and
• a copy of your emergency plan.

Items you should keep in your trunk:

• sand, salt or kitty litter (non clumping);
• antifreeze and windshield washer fluid;
• tow straps and booster cables;
• a fire extinguisher; and
• a warning lantern or flares.

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