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Top Disasters in Canada

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Emergency Preparedness Cards

Wildfires

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Wildfires can spread rapidly with little warning. Learn how to protect your home and family with proper preparation and response strategies.

Wildfires

Canada sees ~8,000 wildfires annually, burning ~2 M ha on average, with the 2023 season hitting a record 18.5 M ha and displacing 185,000–232,000 people

Wildfire Safety Guide

×

🔥 Preparedness

  • Create a 30-100 foot defensible space around your home
  • Use fire-resistant materials for roofing and siding
  • Install spark arresters on chimneys
  • Prepare an emergency kit with N95 masks and supplies
  • Develop a family evacuation plan with multiple routes

🚨 Emergency Response

  • Evacuate immediately if authorities issue orders
  • If trapped, call 911 and stay in a cleared area
  • Wear N95 masks to reduce smoke inhalation
  • Close all windows and doors
  • Shut off gas at the meter

🏡 Recovery

  • Return only when officials declare the area safe
  • Wear protective clothing during clean-up
  • Document all damage for insurance claims
  • Be alert for hot spots and gas leaks
  • Seek emotional counseling if needed
Emergency Preparedness Cards

Floods

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Floods are among the most common natural disasters. Even shallow water can be dangerous. Learn how to stay safe during flood emergencies.

Floods

Canada faces over 10 major floods per decade, each causing over C$100M in damages and widespread disruption.

Flood Safety Guide

×

🌊 Preparedness

  • Know your flood risk and elevation above flood stage
  • Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwater back-ups
  • Waterproof your basement and elevate critical utilities
  • Prepare an emergency kit with drinking water, non-perishable food, and medications
  • Learn evacuation routes and have a family communication plan

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Move to higher ground immediately when warned
  • Never walk or drive through floodwaters - just 6 inches can sweep you away
  • Turn off electricity at the main breaker if flooding is imminent
  • Avoid contact with floodwater which may be contaminated
  • Listen to emergency broadcasts for updates and instructions

🚧 Recovery

  • Return home only when authorities say it's safe
  • Wear protective gear during clean-up (boots, gloves, masks)
  • Document damage thoroughly for insurance claims
  • Discard any food that came in contact with floodwater
  • Watch for mold growth and address it promptly
Emergency Preparedness Cards

Earthquakes

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Earthquakes strike without warning. Knowing what to do can save your life and help you recover faster.

Earthquakes

Canada sees 60–100 earthquakes yearly. Most are minor, but some cause damage and pose risks to communities.

Earthquake Safety Guide

×

🏚️ Preparedness

  • Secure heavy furniture and appliances
  • Practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" drills
  • Identify safe spots in each room
  • Prepare an emergency kit with supplies
  • Learn how to shut off utilities

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Drop to your hands and knees
  • Cover your head and neck
  • Hold on to sturdy shelter
  • If indoors, stay there
  • If driving, pull over and stop

🛠️ Recovery

  • Expect aftershocks
  • Check for injuries
  • Inspect your home for damage
  • Turn off gas if you smell it
  • Use text messages to communicate
Winter Storm Preparedness

Winter

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Winter storms can bring heavy snow, freezing rain, and extreme cold. Being ready in advance keeps you safe and warm.

Storms

Canada faces 15–40 winter storms each year. Some cause minor issues, while others lead to outages, hazardous travel, and health risks.

Winter Storm Safety Guide

×

🧤 Preparedness

  • Stock up on food, water, and medications
  • Insulate pipes and windows
  • Keep emergency heating and blankets
  • Charge all electronic devices
  • Know how to shut off water in case of frozen pipes

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Stay indoors and keep warm
  • Avoid driving or walking outside
  • Use generators safely and only outdoors
  • Check on elderly neighbors or family
  • Listen to local alerts and forecasts

💡 Recovery

  • Clear snow safely to avoid injury
  • Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia
  • Report downed power lines or hazards
  • Restock your emergency supplies
  • Get professional help for damaged plumbing
Tornado Preparedness Card

Tornado

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Tornadoes can strike with little warning, causing devastating damage. Knowing what to do can save your life.

Tornado

Canada sees 60–100 tornadoes annually, mainly from May to September, causing damage, flipped vehicles, and dangerous debris.

Tornado Safety Guide

×

🌪️ Preparedness

  • Identify a safe room in your home (basement or interior room on lowest floor)
  • Practice tornado drills with your family
  • Know the difference between tornado watch (possible) and warning (imminent)
  • Keep a battery-powered weather radio
  • Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Go immediately to your pre-identified safe location
  • Stay away from windows and protect your head
  • If in a vehicle, drive to nearest sturdy shelter or lie flat in ditch
  • Do not try to outrun a tornado in urban areas
  • Use furniture or mattresses for additional protection

🛠️ Recovery

  • Watch out for broken glass, nails, and other sharp objects
  • Check for injuries and provide first aid as needed
  • Stay clear of damaged buildings until declared safe
  • Document property damage with photos
  • Listen to official information for emergency instructions
Hurricane Safety Card

Hurricane

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Hurricanes bring destructive winds, storm surges, and flooding. Advance preparation is crucial for coastal safety.

Hurricane

Hurricanes and post-tropical storms strike Canada every 5–10 years, mostly in Atlantic provinces, causing strong winds, flooding, and damage.

Hurricane Safety Guide

×

🌊 Preparedness

  • Know your evacuation zone and routes
  • Install storm shutters or board-up materials
  • Trim trees and secure outdoor items
  • Build an emergency kit with 3+ days of supplies
  • Review insurance coverage (flood insurance requires 30-day wait)

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Follow evacuation orders immediately
  • Fill bathtubs with clean water for sanitation
  • Charge all devices and backup batteries
  • Secure important documents in waterproof containers
  • Move valuables to highest floor in flood-prone areas

🏠 Recovery

  • Wait for official "all clear" before going outside
  • Watch for downed power lines and standing water
  • Photograph damage for insurance claims
  • Boil water until authorities declare it safe
  • Check on neighbors, especially elderly/vulnerable
Drought Preparedness Card

Drought

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Droughts develop slowly but can have devastating impacts on water supplies, agriculture, and ecosystems. Proactive measures are essential.

Drought

Canada faces major droughts every 3–5 years, mainly in the Prairies, leading to water shortages, crop losses, wildfires, and rising food costs.

Drought Preparedness Guide

×

🌵 Preparedness

  • Install water-efficient fixtures (low-flow toilets/showerheads)
  • Fix leaks immediately (a dripping faucet wastes 20+ gallons/day)
  • Replace lawns with drought-resistant landscaping (xeriscaping)
  • Collect rainwater for outdoor use
  • Only run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Maintain a 2-week emergency water supply (1 gallon/person/day)
  • Know your local water restrictions and conservation programs
  • Learn to read your water meter to monitor usage
  • Insulate water pipes to prevent heat absorption
  • Identify alternative water sources (community wells, water hauling)

💧 Recovery

  • Implement drip irrigation systems
  • Use mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Select drought-resistant crop varieties
  • Practice rotational grazing for livestock
  • Monitor soil moisture to optimize watering
Landslide Preparedness Card

Landslide

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Landslides are fast-moving masses of rock, soil, or debris that rush down slopes, often earthquakes.They can reach speeds over 35.

Landslide

Landslides are rapid movements of rock, soil, or debris down slopes, causing severe damage to landscapes and structures.

Landslide Safety Guide

×

⛰️ Preparedness

  • New cracks or bulges in ground or pavement
  • Soil moving away from foundations
  • Tilting trees, walls, or utility poles
  • Sudden changes in stream water levels
  • Unusual sounds like trees cracking or boulders knocking

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Evacuate immediately if warned or if you hear unusual sounds
  • Move to higher ground if possible
  • If trapped, curl into tight ball and protect your head
  • Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas
  • Stay awake and alert - most deaths occur at night

🛠️ Recovery

  • Stay away from slide area - additional slides may follow
  • Check for injured or trapped persons near slide
  • Listen for emergency info on radio/TV
  • Watch for flooding - landslides often dam rivers
  • Have pros check damaged foundations before re-entering
HeatWave Preparedness Cards

HeatWave

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Extreme heat can be deadly, especially for vulnerable populations. Proper preparation and response can prevent heat-related illnesses.

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat are prolonged periods of excessive heat, often combined with high humidity, that can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and death.

Extreme Heat Safety Guide

×

🧤 Preparedness

  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible
  • Use fans, but don't rely on them as your primary cooling
  • Take cool showers or baths to lower body temperature
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
  • Cover windows with drapes or shades to block sunlight

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Drink more water than usual (don't wait until thirsty)
  • Avoid alcohol and high-sugar drinks which cause dehydration
  • Eat small, frequent meals with high water content (fruits/vegetables)
  • Monitor urine color - dark yellow indicates dehydration
  • Provide water and shade for pets

💡 Recovery

  • Heat Cramps: Muscle pains/spasms (usually legs/abdomen)
  • Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, cold/pale skin
  • Heat Stroke: High body temp (103°F+), confusion, loss of consciousness
  • Check on high-risk individuals (elderly, children, those with chronic illnesses)
  • Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles
Emergency Preparedness Cards

Wildfires

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Wildfires can spread rapidly with little warning. Learn how to protect your home and family with proper preparation and response strategies.

Wildfires

Canada sees ~8,000 wildfires annually, burning ~2 M ha on average, with the 2023 season hitting a record 18.5 M ha and displacing 185,000–232,000 people

Wildfire Safety Guide

×

🔥 Preparedness

  • Create a 30-100 foot defensible space around your home
  • Use fire-resistant materials for roofing and siding
  • Install spark arresters on chimneys
  • Prepare an emergency kit with N95 masks and supplies
  • Develop a family evacuation plan with multiple routes

🚨 Emergency Response

  • Evacuate immediately if authorities issue orders
  • If trapped, call 911 and stay in a cleared area
  • Wear N95 masks to reduce smoke inhalation
  • Close all windows and doors
  • Shut off gas at the meter

🏡 Recovery

  • Return only when officials declare the area safe
  • Wear protective clothing during clean-up
  • Document all damage for insurance claims
  • Be alert for hot spots and gas leaks
  • Seek emotional counseling if needed
Emergency Preparedness Cards

Floods

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Floods are among the most common natural disasters. Even shallow water can be dangerous. Learn how to stay safe during flood emergencies.

Floods

Canada faces over 10 major floods per decade, each causing over C$100M in damages and widespread disruption.

Flood Safety Guide

×

🌊 Preparedness

  • Know your flood risk and elevation above flood stage
  • Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwater back-ups
  • Waterproof your basement and elevate critical utilities
  • Prepare an emergency kit with drinking water, non-perishable food, and medications
  • Learn evacuation routes and have a family communication plan

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Move to higher ground immediately when warned
  • Never walk or drive through floodwaters - just 6 inches can sweep you away
  • Turn off electricity at the main breaker if flooding is imminent
  • Avoid contact with floodwater which may be contaminated
  • Listen to emergency broadcasts for updates and instructions

🚧 Recovery

  • Return home only when authorities say it's safe
  • Wear protective gear during clean-up (boots, gloves, masks)
  • Document damage thoroughly for insurance claims
  • Discard any food that came in contact with floodwater
  • Watch for mold growth and address it promptly
Emergency Preparedness Cards

Earthquakes

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Earthquakes strike without warning. Knowing what to do can save your life and help you recover faster.

Earthquakes

Canada sees 60–100 earthquakes yearly. Most are minor, but some cause damage and pose risks to communities.

Earthquake Safety Guide

×

🏚️ Preparedness

  • Secure heavy furniture and appliances
  • Practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" drills
  • Identify safe spots in each room
  • Prepare an emergency kit with supplies
  • Learn how to shut off utilities

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Drop to your hands and knees
  • Cover your head and neck
  • Hold on to sturdy shelter
  • If indoors, stay there
  • If driving, pull over and stop

🛠️ Recovery

  • Expect aftershocks
  • Check for injuries
  • Inspect your home for damage
  • Turn off gas if you smell it
  • Use text messages to communicate
Winter Storm Preparedness

Winter

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Winter storms can bring heavy snow, freezing rain, and extreme cold. Being ready in advance keeps you safe and warm.

Storms

Canada faces 15–40 winter storms each year. Some cause minor issues, while others lead to outages, hazardous travel, and health risks.

Winter Storm Safety Guide

×

🧤 Preparedness

  • Stock up on food, water, and medications
  • Insulate pipes and windows
  • Keep emergency heating and blankets
  • Charge all electronic devices
  • Know how to shut off water in case of frozen pipes

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Stay indoors and keep warm
  • Avoid driving or walking outside
  • Use generators safely and only outdoors
  • Check on elderly neighbors or family
  • Listen to local alerts and forecasts

💡 Recovery

  • Clear snow safely to avoid injury
  • Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia
  • Report downed power lines or hazards
  • Restock your emergency supplies
  • Get professional help for damaged plumbing
Tornado Preparedness Card

Tornado

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Tornadoes can strike with little warning, causing devastating damage. Knowing what to do can save your life.

Tornado

Canada sees 60–100 tornadoes annually, mainly from May to September, causing damage, flipped vehicles, and dangerous debris.

Tornado Safety Guide

×

🌪️ Preparedness

  • Identify a safe room in your home (basement or interior room on lowest floor)
  • Practice tornado drills with your family
  • Know the difference between tornado watch (possible) and warning (imminent)
  • Keep a battery-powered weather radio
  • Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Go immediately to your pre-identified safe location
  • Stay away from windows and protect your head
  • If in a vehicle, drive to nearest sturdy shelter or lie flat in ditch
  • Do not try to outrun a tornado in urban areas
  • Use furniture or mattresses for additional protection

🛠️ Recovery

  • Watch out for broken glass, nails, and other sharp objects
  • Check for injuries and provide first aid as needed
  • Stay clear of damaged buildings until declared safe
  • Document property damage with photos
  • Listen to official information for emergency instructions
Hurricane Safety Card

Hurricane

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Hurricanes bring destructive winds, storm surges, and flooding. Advance preparation is crucial for coastal safety.

Hurricane

Hurricanes and post-tropical storms strike Canada every 5–10 years, mostly in Atlantic provinces, causing strong winds, flooding, and damage.

Hurricane Safety Guide

×

🌊 Preparedness

  • Know your evacuation zone and routes
  • Install storm shutters or board-up materials
  • Trim trees and secure outdoor items
  • Build an emergency kit with 3+ days of supplies
  • Review insurance coverage (flood insurance requires 30-day wait)

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Follow evacuation orders immediately
  • Fill bathtubs with clean water for sanitation
  • Charge all devices and backup batteries
  • Secure important documents in waterproof containers
  • Move valuables to highest floor in flood-prone areas

🏠 Recovery

  • Wait for official "all clear" before going outside
  • Watch for downed power lines and standing water
  • Photograph damage for insurance claims
  • Boil water until authorities declare it safe
  • Check on neighbors, especially elderly/vulnerable
Drought Preparedness Card

Drought

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Droughts develop slowly but can have devastating impacts on water supplies, agriculture, and ecosystems. Proactive measures are essential.

Drought

Canada faces major droughts every 3–5 years, mainly in the Prairies, leading to water shortages, crop losses, wildfires, and rising food costs.

Drought Preparedness Guide

×

🌵 Preparedness

  • Install water-efficient fixtures (low-flow toilets/showerheads)
  • Fix leaks immediately (a dripping faucet wastes 20+ gallons/day)
  • Replace lawns with drought-resistant landscaping (xeriscaping)
  • Collect rainwater for outdoor use
  • Only run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Maintain a 2-week emergency water supply (1 gallon/person/day)
  • Know your local water restrictions and conservation programs
  • Learn to read your water meter to monitor usage
  • Insulate water pipes to prevent heat absorption
  • Identify alternative water sources (community wells, water hauling)

💧 Recovery

  • Implement drip irrigation systems
  • Use mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Select drought-resistant crop varieties
  • Practice rotational grazing for livestock
  • Monitor soil moisture to optimize watering
Landslide Preparedness Card

Landslide

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Landslides are fast-moving masses of rock, soil, or debris that rush down slopes, often earthquakes.They can reach speeds over 35.

Landslide

Landslides are rapid movements of rock, soil, or debris down slopes, causing severe damage to landscapes and structures.

Landslide Safety Guide

×

⛰️ Preparedness

  • New cracks or bulges in ground or pavement
  • Soil moving away from foundations
  • Tilting trees, walls, or utility poles
  • Sudden changes in stream water levels
  • Unusual sounds like trees cracking or boulders knocking

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Evacuate immediately if warned or if you hear unusual sounds
  • Move to higher ground if possible
  • If trapped, curl into tight ball and protect your head
  • Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas
  • Stay awake and alert - most deaths occur at night

🛠️ Recovery

  • Stay away from slide area - additional slides may follow
  • Check for injured or trapped persons near slide
  • Listen for emergency info on radio/TV
  • Watch for flooding - landslides often dam rivers
  • Have pros check damaged foundations before re-entering
Emergency Preparedness Cards

HeatWave

Preparedness • Response • Recovery

Extreme heat can be deadly, especially for vulnerable populations. Proper preparation and response can prevent heat-related illnesses.

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat are prolonged periods of excessive heat, often combined with high humidity, that can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and death.

Extreme Heat Safety Guide

×

🧤 Preparedness

  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible
  • Use fans, but don't rely on them as your primary cooling
  • Take cool showers or baths to lower body temperature
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
  • Cover windows with drapes or shades to block sunlight

⚠️ Emergency Response

  • Drink more water than usual (don't wait until thirsty)
  • Avoid alcohol and high-sugar drinks which cause dehydration
  • Eat small, frequent meals with high water content (fruits/vegetables)
  • Monitor urine color - dark yellow indicates dehydration
  • Provide water and shade for pets

💡 Recovery

  • Heat Cramps: Muscle pains/spasms (usually legs/abdomen)
  • Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, cold/pale skin
  • Heat Stroke: High body temp (103°F+), confusion, loss of consciousness
  • Check on high-risk individuals (elderly, children, those with chronic illnesses)
  • Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles

From everyday safety tips to essential survival tools, we help you take control before disaster strikes.

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