ReadyPack

Prepared doesn’t have to look intense. In Canada, agencies recommend being self‑sufficient for at least 72 hours after a major disruption. That can sound big, until you start small. A MiniPack you’ll actually carry gets you through the everyday bumps: headaches, blisters, late commutes, or brief power blips.

Step 1: Make a list of your Emergency Essentials
Your phone, keys, wallet, and a MiniPack. The MiniPack includes first‑aid basics, water with purification tabs, an electrolyte stick, and a non‑melting snack. The goal isn’t wilderness survival. It’s getting home with less stress and more comfort.

Step 2: Add a few home extras for more Situations
Keep flats of water or a water jug at home, plus a back-up flashlight, batteries, and some non-perishable. Jot down emergency contacts and store a copy in your kit. If you have pets or kids, add their essentials: medications, food, and comfort items.

Step 3: Make a simple plan
Pick a meeting spot near home and one outside your neighbourhood. Learn your building’s exit routes. Save local non‑emergency numbers. A two‑line plan beats a long document no one reads.

Step 4: Season‑proof it
Winter? Toss in hand warmers and a knit hat to your car kit. Summer? Add sunscreen and a hat. The base stays the same and you can make small adjustments.

Step 5: Check in twice a year
Use your kit and replace what you use. Check the expiry tracker for tabs, meds, and bars. Preparedness is a habit, not a one‑time project.

Stay warm, protect water, and keep a little light. If the power cuts on a cold day, do three things: keep heat in, conserve phone battery, and make safe light.

1) Heat
Close doors to one main room. Layer up: socks, hat, sweater. Use blankets and block drafts with towels. If you have safe backup heat, ventilate and follow instructions. Never use BBQs or gas stoves indoors.

2) Light
Use a flashlight or headlamp. If you have stormproof matches, light a sturdy candle in a wide, stable holder. Never leave it unattended.

3) Water & food
Use the fold‑flat pouch and water tabs if you’re unsure about tap water. Sip an electrolyte mix if you’re feeling sluggish. Eat shelf‑stable foods first and keep the fridge closed as much as possible.

4) Phone power
Switch to low‑power mode, dim your screen, and turn off background refresh. Use a power bank if you have one. Text instead of calling to save battery.

5) Check on neighbours
A quick message or knock helps, especially for seniors or folks with mobility needs.

6) After power returns
Restock used items. Note anything you wished you had. Update your kit while it’s fresh.

A glovebox with essentials can turn “ugh” into “handled.” Winter delays, summer road trips, surprise detours are easily handled by keeping a few essential items in easy reach.

Must‑haves

• MiniPack: first‑aid basics, water tabs, water ration, snack bar, flashlight.
• Small flashlight or keychain light; spare batteries
• Mylar blanket; work gloves
• USB charging cable; small power bank
• Paper map snippet for your area

Nice‑to‑haves
Hand warmers (winter), sunglasses (glare), a small towel, and spare socks.

In trunk: reflective triangle, jumper cables, and an ice scraper.

How to store it
Keep the MiniPack in the glove box or door pocket. Add a second bar in summer (heat‑stable). Check your expiry strip every few months.

After you use it
Replace what you used or jot a quick note: “Used bandages in June, add more.” This habit will keep your kit useful.

Next step
Pick a MiniPack, toss it in your glove box, and enjoy the calm of being ready.