The regional head of Civil Protection, Montserrat Román, has explained the importance of having this self-protection backpack ready, especially given the possibility of having to evacuate a home quickly. The awareness campaign, under the slogan 'This summer prepare and don't be a statistic', emphasizes the need to anticipate emergencies that may force people to leave their homes in a short time.
In the Canary Islands, recent episodes such as forest fires, the volcanic eruption of La Palma, or adverse weather phenomena have shown that the time to leave a home is often very limited. Therefore, having a backpack with essentials for the first few hours away from home is considered a simple and vital self-protection measure.
Montserrat Román highlights that preparing this backpack takes only a few minutes and can make a difference. The key is that it is complete, checked, and placed in an easily accessible location. Essential items include personal documentation, health cards, and usual medication, crucial for proving identity and continuing medical treatments.
It is also recommended to include water and non-perishable food for the first few hours, such as nuts or other easily transportable and storable products. Other suggested items include personal hygiene products, a flashlight, a small first-aid kit, a power bank for the mobile phone, a battery-powered radio, and cash.
Civil Protection insists that the backpack should be adapted to the needs of each family. For households with elderly people, babies, or those with special needs, specific medication, appropriate food, diapers, or sanitary documentation should be added. The recommendation extends to those living with pets, suggesting the inclusion of water, food, animal documentation, and basic items for their safe transport.
Finally, the importance of storing the backpack in an accessible place and periodically checking its contents is emphasized to ensure that products have not expired and information is up-to-date. An emergency backpack is only useful if its contents meet the family's real needs and are in good condition.
