"I Never Thought This Would Happen to Me": The Importance of Disaster Preparedness

When disaster strikes—whether it’s a wildfire, flood, or severe winter storm—many people find themselves saying, “I never thought it would happen to me.” This sentiment reveals a common misconception: that disasters only affect others. However, the reality is that disasters can impact anyone, anywhere, at any time. The key to navigating these challenging situations lies in being prepared.

The Reality of Disasters in Canada

Canada is no stranger to disasters. From natural disasters like wildfires and ice storms, the country faces a range of potential threats. According to Public Safety Canada, nearly 80% of Canadians live in areas at risk for natural disasters. Yet, many people feel unprepared for the next event.

A study by the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction found that a significant number of Canadians do not have an emergency plan or supplies ready. This lack of preparation can lead to panic and confusion during a disaster, increasing risks for individuals and families.

Why Preparedness Matters

Being prepared means having the knowledge and resources to respond effectively when disaster strikes. Here are some key reasons why disaster preparedness is essential:

• Mitigating Risks: Preparedness can minimize the impact of a disaster. Knowing evacuation routes and having an emergency kit can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety.

• Quick Response: In a disaster, every second counts. A well-thought-out plan enables individuals to react swiftly, potentially saving lives and reducing injuries.

• Community Resilience: Prepared individuals contribute to a stronger, more resilient community. When everyone is equipped to handle disasters, communities recover faster and more effectively.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are prepared can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Being proactive allows you to focus on what truly matters during a crisis—your well-being and that of your loved ones.

  
  

Taking Action with Bridges of Love

At Bridges of Love, we offer essential training programs to help you prepare for emergencies:

• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT): Our CERT training equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively during disasters. We have CERT Information Sessions and Training sessions regularly. Check out our website and register for our next event!

• Alberta Recovers: In addition to preparing for disasters, we support victims of disasters through our online donation matching program, Alberta Recovers. This initiative allows community members to donate items and funds to those affected by disasters, fostering a sense of solidarity and support.

  
  

How You Can Get Involved

• Join Our CERT Training: Empower yourself and your community by signing up for our CERT training program. It’s an invaluable opportunity to learn lifesaving skills.

• Participate in Alberta Recovers: If you wish to contribute, visit our Alberta Recovers platform, where you can make donations or post items you’d like to give to disaster victims. Every contribution makes a difference.

• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local news and alerts about potential disasters. The Alberta Emergency Alert app provides real-time information and alerts about emergencies in your area.

  
  

Disasters may feel like distant threats, but the truth is that they can affect anyone, including you. By preparing now and getting involved with Bridges of Love, you can avoid the all-too-common refrain of “I never thought it would happen to me.” Instead, you can confidently say, “I was ready to help.”