Strengthening Safety for You, Your Family

A new way for Nova Scotians to strengthen personal safety was introduced today, April 30, to mark Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs from May 3 to 9.

The Emergency Management Office has produced a medical information checklist that can be used to help Nova Scotians in case of an emergency. The checklist includes information on prescriptions, doctors and emergency contacts, and should be placed in a sealable plastic bag and attached to the inside of the front door.

The information will assist emergency responders, and help residents who may have to quickly evacuate their homes. The checklist is designed to ensure privacy, so that personal medical information cannot be seen by visitors to the home.

"This is a simple and effective way for Nova Scotians to protect themselves and their families," said Emergency Management Minister David Morse. "It will complement other emergency programs like Vial of Life."

Nova Scotians are encouraged to pick up the free checklist being distributed by many pharmacies in Nova Scotia, home-care and community-housing networks, the Canadian Red Cross, and through the Emergency Management Office website, www.gov.ns.ca/emo . It also includes useful information on how to prepare a home emergency kit.

The checklist was developed in collaboration with the departments of Health, Community Services, and Health Promotion and Protection, Public Safety Canada and the Canadian Red Cross.

Emergency Preparedness Week is an annual national event during the first full week of May. During Emergency Preparedness Week, activities are held across Canada to raise awareness of the importance of having an emergency kit, making an emergency plan and identifying local risks.