In Simcoe County, there's the risk of a variety of extreme weather scenarios including ice storms, floods or tornadoes.
The Student Emergency Preparedness Program (STEP) with the County of Simcoe teaches school children about how to be ready.
11-year-old Olivia Centurione, a grade 6 student at Monsignor Clair Catholic School, took the lessons home and won a Canadian Red Cross 72- Hour Disaster Kit for her safety efforts.
Olivia had the winning contest entry out of more than 300 students for what she would include in her emergency kit.
"I was happy and surprised. It was out of a lot of people. It's really cool," said Olivia. "I did start an emergency kit with my Mom and I did learn a lot more and its good to know stuff like that if you're ever in a situation like that."
Olivia included many of the standard recommended items which are a flashlight, radios, pen, paper, water, first aid supplies and non-perishable food.
Since the school program launched in 2012, over 8,000 students across Simcoe County have had the training.
Rob Heffernan, County of Simcoe Emergency Management Training and Promotion Coordinator, presented Olivia with the kit and a certificate.
"We take the approach that being prepared is not scared. If you have the plans, if you have the kit, you're better to weather the events that do happen," said Heffernan.
"Our department does this program primarily for grade 5 classes all across Simcoe County. We do a short presentation on what students can do to be better prepared. Know the risks for our area. Make emergency plans with thir family and put together an emergency kit at home."
Everyone is encouraged to check the kits annual for expired items, especially food.
But Heffernan also reminds people to include a supply of prescription medication, photocopies or electronic copies of identification, emergency phone numbers and insurance policies.
To learn more about STEP and how to be prepared for an emergency, click here.
