Banff, AB - May 4 to 10 is Emergency Preparedness Week across the country, and the Town of Banff is reminding all residents that emergencies can happen at any time.
“You should be able to take care of yourself and your family for 72 hours,” said Fire Chief Silvio Adamo. “Ensure you have enough non-perishable food, water, medication, warm clothing and comfort items for all family members. You also need a grab-and-go kit in case you need to evacuate your home quickly," he added.
You won’t always be asked to evacuate. In some emergencies, such as when chemical contaminant or heavy smoke from a forest fire is released in the environment, you may be instructed to "shelter-in-place". This means you must remain inside your home or office and protect yourself there.
1. Close and lock all windows and exterior doors.
2. Turn off all fans, heating and air-conditioning systems to avoid drawing in air from the outside.
3. Close the fireplace damper.
4. Get your emergency kit and make sure the radio is working.
5. Go to an interior room that's above ground level (if possible, one without windows). In the case of a chemical threat, an above-ground location is preferable because some chemicals are heavier than air and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed.
6. Use duct or other wide tape to seal all cracks around the door and any vents into the room.
7. Continue to monitor your radio until you are told by the Town that all is safe or are advised to evacuate.
The Town of Banff will activate its emergency plan whenever necessary, and will notify residents via the Alberta Emergency Alert system, as well its website alert system, social media and door to door. Listen to the radio, check the front page of www.banff.ca for the most up-to-date information during an emergency.
You can also subscribe to alerts from the website, or follow the Town on social media. Visit www.banff.ca/emergency for more information on how to prepare and to subscribe to alerts. Or contact the Banff Fire Department at 403.762.1256.