Canada advises citizens to prepare for 72 hours without essential services
Public Safety Canada stated that the recommendation to manage without water or electricity for three days is not a new guidance.
Canadian officials have reiterated advice for citizens to prepare for at least 72 hours without essential services, according to a Times of India report. Public Safety Canada said the recommendation to be ready for disruptions to electricity, running water, and basic services is not new and has been in place for years.
The guidance follows emergency preparedness calls from the United Kingdom, France, and Japan. While officials stated there is no indication these international announcements are linked to a specific expected event, experts suggest Canadians should review their plans and supplies.
Zarah Malik, a spokesperson for Public Safety Canada, said in a statement to CBC News that residents have been encouraged for many years to take care of their households for a minimum of 72 hours during emergencies. Public Safety Canada noted that in some areas, it may take longer than 72 hours for emergency workers to reach residents or for services to be restored.
Suzanne Bernier, an instructor with the Disaster Recovery Institute of Canada, told CTV Your Morning on November 4 that the messaging is the same as what was given 30 years ago. She suggested that households should instead consider keeping supplies for a full week.
Bernier noted that cyberattacks on critical infrastructure are a particular concern. She said it is a matter of time before people are directly or indirectly affected by such attacks.