Learn how to prepare for emergencies

A disaster can strike at any time. Are you prepared to take care of you and your family in case of an emergency?

Get alerts

Stay informed by receiving timely instructions during an emergency.


Make a family plan

A simple plan helps everyone know what to do if you are separated or need to leave home quickly. Your plan should include:

  • An in town and out of town contact

  • Two meeting places

  • Copies of important documents kept with your kit

  • Notes about medical needs or accessibility supports


Build your emergency preparedness kit

Prepare a kit that supports your household for three days. Use a sturdy, easy to carry container. Include:

  • Water: four litres per person per day

  • Non perishable food and a manual can opener

  • Flashlight and extra batteries

  • Battery powered or wind up radio

  • First aid kit

  • Cash in small bills

  • Extra keys

  • Special needs items such as medications, infant formula and mobility or accessibility supplies

  • Your family emergency plan and copies of important documents

Update your kit each season and replace food or medications before they expire.

Personal preparedness kit (231.6 KB)

Additional emergency preparedness kit resources


Be ready for power outages

Plan for outages caused by storms or utility interruptions.

  • Keep a battery powered or hand crank radio in your kit

  • Unplug major appliances after the power goes out to prevent damage when power returns

  • Keep the fridge and freezer closed. A fridge stays cold about four hours. A freezer stays frozen about 24 hours

  • Throw away food if the fridge temperature goes above five degrees for more than two hours

  • Use candles only when needed and with caution

  • Never use your oven or stove for heat

  • Never use charcoal or gas grills indoors

  • Do not call 9-1-1 to report outages. For downed power lines in Strathcona County call Fortis Emergency Response at 780-310-9473

  • Stay clear of downed power lines and do not drive over them

  • Consider a generator if outages are common for your area


Support people and pets who depend on you

Help children, seniors, neighbors and pets prepare too.

  • Learn your child’s school or daycare emergency procedures

  • If someone relies on regular support services, help them plan for several days without assistance

  • Build a kit for people who cannot make one on their own

  • Include a radio, flashlight, blankets, list of medicines, personal items, first aid supplies, pet items and spare clothing as needed


Learn skills and get involved

Prepared communities recover faster.

  • Take first aid or CPR classes. Strathcona County Emergency Services offers regular training

  • Volunteer with groups like Red Cross or Victim Services

  • Check in with isolated neighbors, especially before severe weather


Shelter in place, evacuate and stay safe

Some emergencies require you to stay inside (shelter in place). Others require you to leave (evacuate).

Shelter in place tips:

  • Stay indoors

  • Choose an interior room if possible

  • Close windows and doors

  • Follow updates from local media and Alberta Emergency Alerts

For evacuation alerts or orders, follow instructions from authorities and take your kit with you.


Downloads and resources

Get the full guides for more detail.

Check out their other 60 second emergency tips videos on their YouTube channel

Further information
780-410-8550
emergencymanagement@strathcona.ca
Get Prepared Canada

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Last updated: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Page ID: 37689