After writing about ancestral knowledge and emergency preparedness, I heard from several readers who said they found it insightful. Some said they read it a few times —but when the power went out or wildfire smoke rolled in, they hadn’t taken any steps to prepare. Not even purchasing a flashlight.
I understood, because I’ve been there too.
Why Preparedness Matters to me
During a recent wildfire situation in our region, our local Emergency Social Services team was put on standby to open an evacuation center. As I gathered my things to head out, I realized my own go-bag hadn’t been repacked since the previous year. It was dusty, half-stocked, and definitely missing fresh snacks. Luckily, I was able to quickly refresh it and get it back in working order—but it was a strong reminder that preparedness is not a one-and-done task.
This experience made me reflect on the wisdom passed down through my family—ancestral knowledge about being ready for challenges, whether it was harsh winters, or other hardships. Our ancestors survived and thrived because they valued readiness, resilience, and community support. Today, that heritage inspires me to take preparedness seriously and pass those lessons on in my own way.
Quick Action
I also had to make quick arrangements for my pet and ensure work responsibilities were covered so I could focus on my volunteer duties. Thankfully, in an emergency, people step up—supporting each other however they can. Finding pet care was easily taken care of, and I was able to head out knowing things were handled. It all reaffirmed that preparedness isn’t just about having supplies—it’s also about the strength of community and being ready to respond.
Community Safety and Emergency Preparedness
In a recent meeting I had with our local fire chief, he shared that most wildfires in our area are caused by preventable human activities—off-road vehicles, burn barrels, and fire pits being the main culprits. This aligns with provincial wildfire data: over the past several years, human activity has been responsible for the majority of wildfires in Alberta.
The visual graphic illustrates the estimated causes of wildfires from 2017–2022: This was a powerful reminder that prevention is a huge part of preparedness. Following local fire bans and practicing safe habits can help protect our homes and communities.
I’m fortunate to be working alongside the fire chief and his team on local educational programs focused not only on fire prevention but also on promoting safety, responsibility, and ongoing readiness.
5 Things to Remember About Emergency Preparedness
- Prevention Is Key Fire bans and local advisories exist for a reason. Using fire pits responsibly, staying alert with ATVs, and practicing safe habits can stop an emergency before it begins.
- Start with a Checklist
Feeling overwhelmed? Use the Government of Alberta’s Emergency Kit Checklist (PDF) to gather a few basics. No need to buy everything at once—small steps matter. - Preparedness Is Ongoing
Your kit is only useful if it’s current. Revisit it seasonally. Replace batteries, rotate snacks, and update important documents like ID copies and prescription medication. - Start Small, But Start
You don’t need a basement bunker. A working flashlight, a power bank, and a few essentials in a backpack are a huge step in the right direction. - Talk About It
Emergency planning works better when it’s shared. Talk with family, neighbors, or friends—especially those who may need support. Storytelling, like preparedness, is something we pass on. - Wildfires Have Impact Community
To better understand the urgency and reality of emergency preparedness, here are recent news video covering the 2025 wildfires that affected some areas in Alberta.
Final Thoughts
Watching these clips highlights how quickly emergencies develop and why being ready can make all the difference. While this post focuses on wildfire readiness due to its recent impact on our community, the lessons shared apply to many emergencies, from power outages and floods to storms or personal crises. Preparedness is not about fear—it’s about foresight and staying connected to ancestral wisdom, community, and the simple truth that being ready allows us to support not only ourselves but others.
Whether your emergency kit starts with a single flashlight or a full go-bag, the most important step is simply to begin. And if you’re wondering when to get started—consider this your sign.
Have a story about when you weren’t prepared but wish you had been? Or a time when community support made all the difference? I’d love to hear it in the comments below.
_____________________________________________
If you like our content, as an act of reciprocity, please consider liking and subscribing.
thepolestarpost 