Wildfires have been moving closer to communities in Newfoundland & Labrador, and when the call to evacuate comes, you might have minutes, not hours, to act. Being prepared before an emergency can make all the difference for your safety, comfort, and peace of mind.
Whether you live in St. John’s or Conception Bay North, or anywhere in the province, this guide will walk you through what to pack and why it matters.
1. ID & Documents
Gather personal identification like your MCP card, driver’s license, passports, and insurance papers. These items can be critical for accessing services, crossing checkpoints, or starting insurance claims after the event.
Tip: Store copies on a USB drive or in secure cloud storage so you can retrieve them if the originals are lost. Having both physical and digital backups gives you options when the unexpected happens.
2. Meds & Health Essentials
Your health is non-negotiable during an emergency. Keep prescription medications, over-the-counter remedies, your glasses or contact lenses, and a basic first aid kit ready to grab.
This ensures you’re not scrambling to replace important items when pharmacies might be closed or overwhelmed.
3. Practical Clothing
Pack clothes for a range of conditions—sturdy shoes, warm layers, rain gear, and plenty of socks and underwear. You might be away from home for days or longer, so choose comfort and durability over fashion.
4. Emergency Gear
When the power’s out, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio can keep you connected to evacuation orders and updates. Add a flashlight, extra batteries, and a fully charged power bank for your phone. These small items can be lifesavers when you’re cut off from the grid.
5. Food & Water
Aim for 72 hours’ worth of non-perishable food per person, and store at least 4 litres of water per person, per day. It might feel like a lot, but during a crisis, these supplies can give you stability until help arrives or you can reach a safe location.
6. Cash on Hand
Power outages can knock out ATMs and debit machines. Keep small bills tucked away so you can pay for fuel, food, or lodging without relying on electronic payment systems.
7. Comfort for Kids
Evacuations can be frightening for children. A favourite stuffed animal, a few books, or small games can help them feel more secure. If you have infants, pack essentials like diapers, wipes, and formula. A calm child means less stress for everyone.
8. Pet Preparedness
Pets are part of the family, so make sure they’re ready to go too. Bring a carrier, leash, food, water, and vet records. The last thing you want is to be scrambling for supplies while trying to leave quickly.
9. Local Knowledge Saves Lives
In Newfoundland & Labrador, knowing your surroundings can be just as important as what’s in your bag. Familiarize yourself with ferry routes, keep RCMP and fire department numbers handy, and monitor NL Government fire alerts. Staying informed helps you make quick, smart decisions.
Stay Ready, Stay Safe
Wildfires move fast. The best time to prepare is before you hear the knock at your door or the alert on your phone. Having your essentials packed and ready means you can focus on what matters most—getting yourself and your loved ones to safety.
At Wedgwood Insurance, our mission is to Protect People’s Life’s Work. That starts at home, with the people and pets you care about most.
About Wedgwood Insurance
Wedgwood Insurance has offices in St. John’s & Corner Brook and is Newfoundland & Labrador’s largest independent insurance broker. We provide straightforward home, auto & business insurance advice.
With over 340 Google My Business reviews, experience the Wedgwood difference with expert advice from our dedicated team. We ensure that every client has the coverage that best suits their needs through upfront complimentary consultations and midterm reviews.
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