Maynor Gonzalez keeps a year supply of food in his basement, and doesn't take it for granted. In 1976, he lived through a massive earthquake in his native Guatemala and since moving here, he's survived some tough times as well. "I remember a couple of times, I lost my job," says Gonzalez. "We can't spend any more money. This is what we have."
The city is asking you to do the same on a smaller scale. Calgary's Emergency Management Agency recommends the kit to help you survive for three days on your own. 
"Canned goods are great if you have an electric can opener, some people even forget simple things such as a mechanical can opener," says Bruce Burrell, Director of the Emergency Management Agency. "The other thing is if your heating sources aren't available how are you going to heat canned foods," he says.
The city is also doing its part. This fall construction begins on an Emergency Operation Centre or EOC. It will include a back-up 911 centre, which is an investment for the future, after close calls in the past.
"June of last year, we had a number of calls backed up at the 911 centre when we had heavy rains last year," says Burrell. To help get the word out during an emergency, the city is looking at using instant messaging, websites, and a media centre at the EOC. If all else fails as technology is known to do, having a simple radio is essential. Your kit should also have winter clothing, dried fruit, and at least four liters of bottled water per person per day. To find out more about the 72 Hour Emergency Kit, log on to the city's website calgary.ca/cem.

Check out the details on the video clip.