Latest news with #emergencyPreparedness
CBC
2 days ago
- Climate
- CBC
How to deal with your — and your child's — anxiety during wildfire season
Nearly 100 wildfires have been reported in Newfoundland and Labrador so far this year, marking an early and active start to the season that has already claimed 12 homes on the island and threatened a community in central Labrador. The threat of wildfires can cause significant disruption, and child psychologist Janine Hubbard says the stress and uncertainty affects everyone. Hubbard said it's important to avoid keeping children in the dark about what's happening. "Kids are smart. They pick up on the fact that adults are stressed over that," Hubbard said. Rather than treating fires like an elephant in the room, Hubbard said, parents should involve their children in the preparation for a potential emergency evacuation. Hubbard also suggests assigning children tasks, such as packing a bag or taking pictures of the home, which can be helpful for insurance purposes. "Let them take total control of a bag that they want to pack with what they think are priorities. You can pack the necessities and the practical stuff in another bag for them, but let them figure that out," she said. For children between the ages of eight and 10, Hubbard said allowing them to learn about wildfires through age-appropriate YouTube videos can be helpful. "There are some fabulous videos and information online about how forest fires work," she said. "They get their sense of control by just understanding the situation a little bit better." The main priority, she said, is reminding children that they will be safe. For adults, she suggests preparing for wildfires in a similar manner to how people prepare for a hurricane can help alleviate anxiety. "This is the time to make sure you've got all your emergency preparedness, your extra dog food, your extra water, all of those things," she said. "This appears to be something we're going to be talking about each year." Fires settling Provincial forest fire duty officer Jeff Motty said Monday that the fire threatening Churchill Falls is now under control, while a second fire, burning in nearby Faden Siding, is being contained. Happy Valley-Goose Bay lifted its municipal fire ban on Monday, while several towns on the Avalon Peninsula maintain theirs despite there being a low risk status on the province's fire hazard map. WATCH | Fred Hollett says he's seen a shift in the fire season: Firefighter of 50 years says climate change has shifted forest fires in Canada 1 day ago Duration 1:02 Fire crews continue to monitor wildfires in Labrador on Monday, while other communities across the province remain under a fire ban. One of those towns is Portugal Cove-St. Philip's, where fire Chief Fred Hollett says he's seen the season change dramatically over his five decades on the job. Motty said rain is in the forecast for Labrador — news that allows him to breathe a sigh of relief. "Three of four days this week, we are expecting rain in Labrador. So that will settle the fire risk down," Motty said. "The weather settles my brain."
CNET
28-05-2025
- General
- CNET
My Favorite Do-It-All Multitool Is Perfect for Around the House or an Emergency Bag
I have always liked DIY-ing my way around things, but before I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, keeping an emergency go bag in the house wasn't something I ever worried about. But now I live less than a mile from the fault that earthquake experts say is the region's most dangerous. And among the most frequently asked questions in my house is, "Did you feel that?" However, natural disasters don't issue a prior warning, so my family and I have created an emergency plan for when the need arises: We keep our car fueled up, we have our portable chargers topped up and at the ready, and we all know how to shut off our gas. But maybe the most important prep work we've done is to put together an emergency go bag, also known as a bug-out bag. One item I've included in my go bag is a multitool by Gerber that includes pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, wire cutters, as well as a knife. You can drop a lot of money on a multitool, and some of those more expensive models are worth it. But because I wanted to buy more than one of these -- since my kids could always use one too -- both price and weight were important to me, which is why I chose the Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini multitool. Priced at about $30, this multitool is always worth grabbing, whether it's on sale or not. Below, I'll go through why I like this tool so much. For more mainstays of the go bag, here are our favorite power banks for iPhones and here are the best portable solar panels. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Where this multitool fits into my emergency preparedness plans In addition to having bug-out bags at the ready, we keep an extensive earthquake kit in a big toy chest. With this big kit -- called a stay box -- weight isn't really an issue, and we can store enough food, water and whatever else we need to make it through a few days or even weeks. But in a go bag, each item has to be portable and essential, because weight adds up quickly. (This is the mini lantern I went with.) The Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini weighs just a few ounces and fits into the palm of my hand when it's folded up. Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini multitool specs Material: Stainless steel Stainless steel Dimensions when open: 5.5 x 4 x 0.6 inches 5.5 x 4 x 0.6 inches Dimensions when closed: 5.5 x 2.75 x 0.6 inches 5.5 x 2.75 x 0.6 inches Weight: 2.2 ounces 2.2 ounces Included tools: Pliers, wire cutter, tweezers, small and medium-size flat-head screwdrivers, bottle opener, retail package opener, plain-edge blade, scissors, fine and coarse files, lanyard/key ring Why the Gerber Dime Mini makes a great gift This is also a great tool to have in your car or your desk drawer at work. Gerber Gifting this multitool may seem overly practical, but there will eventually be a time that it will come in handy for anyone. Plus, you really can't beat its price compared to some of the competition out there. This is perfect for your handy friends who could always use another gadget for fixing things or someone building out their emergency bags.
Hospitality Net
28-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Tech Entrepreneur Vanessa Osbourne Opens Up About Modernizing Hotel Emergency Preparedness to Protect People, Property and Profits
If you were to look at her resume, it would tell you that Vanessa Osbourne, founder of Smart Hotel Manager, has spent her career solving complex issues and helping companies avoid costly mistakes to the tune of 7 to 20 million dollars a day. Her experience paints the picture of a highly motivated, highly accomplished woman who has found her foothold as a leader in high-stakes environments. But if you were to take a closer look, or if you had the pleasure to sit down with Osbourne and ask her – on a deeper level – what she does, you would learn that her inclination for solving problems is just the beginning. Her real mission lies in helping industries like hospitality close critical gaps in their emergency preparedness infrastructure to not only protect their property and reputation, but ultimately protect and save lives. Before entering the world of hospitality, Osbourne made a name for herself in the oil and gas industry, leading countless teams in solving complex issues – from preventing chemical loss to preventing the loss of personnel. Oil and gas is a high-stakes realm, where a mistake could cost millions or, at worst, truly endanger people's lives , she explains. As a Lean Operations Practitioner, I quickly learned how to detect inefficiencies, uncover hidden risks, and identify the root cause of issues before they had a chance to materialize. For Osbourne, the pursuit of enhanced safety isn't just a part of her job – it's the beating heart of her big-picture vision to give schools life-saving tools in the event of an emergency. The drastic rise of gun violence across schools in the US is incredibly saddening, and developing a solution that might help address this problem feels like a personal calling , she elaborates. When I look at how children – how we as a population – prepare for catastrophic incidents that are, unfortunately, happening more and more today, I see a gap that needs to be addressed. With my background in risk operations technology, I am driven to develop a solution that helps prepare and protect people in the kind of worst-case scenarios we hope will never happen – but will inevitably occur . The hospitality industry, Osbourne quickly realized, often demonstrates a lack of readiness and preparedness that can stand in the way of a hotel's ability to adequately protect their staff and guests. This realization was the driving force behind her creation of Smart Hotel Manager, the first AI-enabled, mobile-first safety platform focused on real-time readiness, which empowers hotel teams to act fast when it matters most. Our nature, as human beings, is to panic – and unfortunately, that is usually where the trouble starts , she explains. I created Smart Hotel Manager as a simple but effective digital solution to help hotel staff prepare for and in the event of an emergency. Rather than relying on a dusty, long-forgotten 300-400 page binder of protocols, the Live Safety app empowers staff with instant, real-time guidance during crisis events . This concept, she stresses, is especially important in hospitality, where a constantly changing workforce and language barriers create unique challenges. A close friend told me about a catastrophic event that happened at the hotel property he was managing , Osbourne shares. A massive water leak that occurred around 2 am cost the property owner hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages, because the staff working at the time didn't know where the main control point was located. The incident was a disaster – and yet, it was totally avoidable . That story marked a turning point for Osbourne. It revealed how even a good team is often unprepared for certain kinds of disasters. Without the proper digital tools and training, you could be left scrambling in an emergency, she adds. Much like industrial sites, hotels urgently need smarter ways to prepare for the unexpected. Hotels also need a smarter way to train, respond, and protect their properties before disaster strikes . Drawing from her experience in oil and gas and conversations with hoteliers, Osbourne knew the solution was to empower teams to respond quickly — without having to dig for a needle in a haystack while under pressure. Even with tabs and indexes, paper-based solutions are often insufficient in a crisis , she notes. Everyone reacts differently to emergencies. But when they have a device in their hand that can quickly tell them exactly what to do and where to go – with GPS guidance and audio support – it helps them to feel calm and in control, and can ideally reduce the damage to a property. When asked what makes her solution unique among safety platforms, Osbourne is emphatic: We don't just digitize safety plans, we operationalize them. Our platform provides real-time functionality, allowing you to quickly access any emergency-compliant plan you need, all tailored specifically to your property, within one intuitive app , she shares. These features aren't just about convenience — they translate into tangible value for hotel owners, from a reduction in insurance claims and premiums to faster onboarding for new staff, higher guest satisfaction during crisis scenarios, and, of course, operational savings through preventative maintenance. Looking ahead, Osbourne sees several key trends shaping the future of hospitality safety — and her platform is evolving right alongside them. A lot of hotel companies are finally moving to the cloud. They might not be as comfortable there as some high-tech industries, but this shift is necessary for a strong future – and we're at the forefront of this move . Artificial intelligence is another major area of growth. Osbourne explains, AI-driven training is progressing rapidly. You already see elements in hotels with apps for guest experience, ratings, food, and spa services. But our approach to AI is different. We use AI not as robots, but as guides. For example, we provide audio guides to help staff prepare for over 20 types of emergency asset management scenarios. This is especially helpful in hotels with 500 to 1,000 rooms, where new hires and night staff need to quickly locate assets and get up to speed without the ongoing costs of traditional training facilities . As for being a female founder in male-dominated sectors, Osbourne credits her leadership style as a key factor in her success. I've often been the only woman in the room, and it's taught me to lead with both empathy and decisiveness. I value listening, but I don't wait for permission to solve problems , she adds with a grin. Look to build credibility by continuously solving real problems – that is what inspires others. Being able to execute under pressure earns you respect, not just the title . According to Osbourne, leadership isn't about being the loudest voice. It's about creating the safest space for others to succeed. Servant leadership is key; show your colleagues and peers that you genuinely care about the people you lead. To C-level executives and hotel owners, Osbourne reiterates the importance of adopting a new lens – one which views safety and emergency preparedness as a competitive edge, not just a box to be checked. When you invest in protecting your property and your people, you're investing in your brand reputation and operational resilience . After all, proactive safety systems don't just reduce liability, they also deliver operational savings. Reactive maintenance costs organizations millions, and I've seen the difference a data-driven, proactive approach can make. It's financially smart to invest in safety technology. In the long run — and even in the short run — you turn what's traditionally seen as a cost center into a profit lever. Her final piece of wisdom? Don't wait for a crisis to rethink your approach. Embrace solutions that empower your staff, protect your assets, and position your business for long-term success . About Puzzle Partner Puzzle Partner is a leading marketing consulting firm specializing in the hospitality and travel technology sector. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, the company serves as a trusted advisor to innovative change-makers in the global hospitality and travel technology landscape. With exceptional domain expertise, an influential industry network, and decades of collective experience, Puzzle Partner delivers customized marketing solutions that amplify brand visibility and drive sustainable growth. The firm's team of experts possesses unparalleled understanding of the interplay between travel, hospitality, and wellness technology branding. Over the past decade, Puzzle Partner has established a proven track record of helping clients outperform competitors, achieve profitable exits, expand into the Americas, and realize extraordinary business outcomes. The company maintains the highest level of client advocacy in the industry while transforming visionary companies into unforgettable brands through strategic storytelling, brand positioning, and innovative content marketing. To learn more, visit Lauren Ramesbottom VP of Strategic Storytelling and Content Puzzle Partner Ltd.
CNET
27-05-2025
- General
- CNET
Post Memorial Day Deal: My Favorite Do-It-All Multitool Is Still Just $26 on Amazon
I have always liked DIY-ing my way around things, but before I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, keeping an emergency go bag in the house wasn't something I ever worried about. But now I live less than a mile from the fault that earthquake experts say is the region's most dangerous. And among the most frequently asked questions in my house is, "Did you feel that?" However, natural disasters don't issue a prior warning, so my family and I have created an emergency plan for when the need arises: We keep our car fueled up, we have our portable chargers topped up and at the ready, and we all know how to shut off our gas. But maybe the most important prep work we've done is to put together an emergency go bag, also known as a bug-out bag. One item I've included in my go bag is a multitool by Gerber that includes pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, wire cutters, as well as a knife and right now, you can grab one of these without paying the full price. You can drop a lot of money on a multitool, and some of those more expensive models are worth it. But because I wanted to buy more than one of these -- since my kids could always use one too -- both price and weight were important to me, which is why I chose the Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini multitool. Normally priced at about $30, this multitool is always worth grabbing, whether it's on sale or not. But it's still discounted after Memorial Day sales, allowing you to save a few bucks and get the red one for $26, a 10% discount. If red isn't your style, there's a green version available that costs $31 and a cool-looking all-black one for $29. Below, I'll go through why I like this tool so much. For more go bag mainstays, here are our favorite power banks for iPhones and the best portable solar panels. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Where this multitool fits into my emergency preparedness plans In addition to having bug-out bags at the ready, we keep an extensive earthquake kit in a big toy chest. With this big kit -- called a stay box -- weight isn't really an issue, and we can store enough food, water and whatever else we need to make it through a few days or even weeks. But in a go bag, each item has to be portable and essential, because weight adds up quickly. (This is the mini lantern I went with.) The Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini weighs just a few ounces and fits into the palm of my hand when it's folded up. Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini multitool specs Material: Stainless steel Stainless steel Dimensions when open: 5.5 x 4 x 0.6 inches 5.5 x 4 x 0.6 inches Dimensions when closed: 5.5 x 2.75 x 0.6 inches 5.5 x 2.75 x 0.6 inches Weight: 2.2 ounces 2.2 ounces Included tools: Pliers, wire cutter, tweezers, small and medium-size flat-head screwdrivers, bottle opener, retail package opener, plain-edge blade, scissors, fine and coarse files, lanyard/key ring Why the Gerber Dime Mini makes a great gift This is also a great tool to have in your car or your desk drawer at work. Gerber Just note that the offer on this Gerber multitool was a part of Amazon's Memorial Day sale, and since the event has wrapped, the current discounted price is on borrowed time. Looking to save on more things to make your life easier? CNET's shopping experts have rounded up all the best post Memorial Day deals still available.
CNET
26-05-2025
- CNET
Memorial Day Deal: My Favorite Do-It-All Multitool Is Just $26 on Amazon for a Limited Time
I have always liked DIY-ing my way around things, but before I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, keeping an emergency go bag in the house wasn't something I ever worried about. But now I live less than a mile from the fault that earthquake experts say is the region's most dangerous. And among the most frequently asked questions in my house is, "Did you feel that?" Unfortunately, natural disasters don't issue a prior warning, so my family and I have created an emergency plan for when the need arises: We keep our car fueled up, we have our portable chargers topped up and at the ready, and we all know how to shut off our gas. But maybe the most important prep work we've done is to put together an emergency go bag, also known as a bug-out bag. One item I've included in my go bag is a multitool by Gerber that includes pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, wire cutters, as well as a knife and right now, you can grab one of these without paying the full price. You can drop a lot of money on a multitool, and some of those more expensive models are worth it. But because I wanted to buy more than one of these -- since my kids could always use one too -- both price and weight were important to me, which is why I chose the Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini multitool. Normally priced at about $30, this multitool is always worth grabbing, whether it's on sale or not. But for a limited time during the Memorial Day sale, you can save a few bucks and get the red one for $26, a 10% discount. If red isn't your style, there's a green version available that costs $31 and a cool-looking all-black one for $30. Below, I'll go through why I like this tool so much. For more go-bag mainstays, here are our favorite power banks for iPhones and the best portable solar panels. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Where this multitool fits into my emergency preparedness plans In addition to having bug-out bags at the ready, we keep an extensive earthquake kit in a big toy chest. With this big kit -- called a stay box -- weight isn't really an issue, and we can store enough food, water and whatever else we need to make it through a few days or even weeks. But in a go-bag, each item has to be portable and essential, because weight adds up quickly. (This is the mini lantern I went with.) The Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini weighs just a few ounces and fits into the palm of my hand when it's folded up. Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini multitool specs Material: Stainless steel Stainless steel Dimensions when open: 5.5 x 4 x 0.6 inches 5.5 x 4 x 0.6 inches Dimensions when closed: 5.5 x 2.75 x 0.6 inches 5.5 x 2.75 x 0.6 inches Weight: 2.2 ounces 2.2 ounces Included tools: Pliers, wire cutter, tweezers, small and medium-size flat-head screwdrivers, bottle opener, retail package opener, plain-edge blade, scissors, fine and coarse files, lanyard/key ring Why the Gerber Dime Mini makes a great gift This is also a great tool to have in your car or your desk drawer at work. Gerber Just note that the offer on this Gerber multitool is a part of Amazon's Memorial Day sale, and since the event wraps up today, the sale also might not last too long. I recommend acting fast before it is too late. Looking to save on more things to make your life easier? CNET's shopping experts have rounded up all the best early Memorial Day deals. And if you're looking for practical gifts, check out this list of the best gifts for grads.
