Recent storms have restarted conversations around how to prepare in the event of an emergency. Canada has written up recommendations for an emergency kit in the event of a power outage. 

An emergency kit contains basic supplies to can survive on during an emergency, even in cases where the power is out for an extended period of time or there have no access to running water or other necessities.

While emergency kits are often recommended for households, security leaders should also prepare emergency supplies for employees. This is especially true for employees who remain in the workplace outside of traditional working hours, such as night-shift employees or hospital staff. Kits should be easy to access or carry for any employee who may need it. 

According to recommendations, emergency kits should contain::

  • Two liters of water per person per day. Include small bottles that can be carried easily.
  • Food that won't spoil, liked canned goods, energy bars and dried foods. Remember to pack a manual can opener if one isn't readily available in the workplace.
  • A flashlight.
  • Battery-powered or wind-up radio.
  • Extra batteries.
  • First aid kit.
  • Extra keys to necessary areas.
  • A copy of the company's emergency plan.