Keynsham Town Council recently sent postcards to 10,000 households encouraging residents to prepare a “grab-and-go” bag with essential items for emergencies. However, it was discovered that the phone number printed on the card was incorrect.
The information cards advised residents to assemble an emergency kit, identify their nearest public-access defibrillator using a QR code, and note down important contact numbers. Unfortunately, the council’s actual contact number, 0117 986 8683, was mistyped on the cards, with the number printed belonging to a former local plumber and now disconnected.
Town councillor Martin Burton, who chairs the council’s community resilience committee, emphasised that the initiative aims to promote preparedness rather than cause alarm. “We hope residents will take a few minutes to complete the leaflet and consider the practical steps they could take before an emergency happens. Being prepared can make a real difference,” he said.
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The project, which cost the council £1,250.52-comprising £414 for printing and £836.52 for distribution-was funded from the town’s “community resilience” budget of £3,000. The council has an overall budget of £1.2 million, supported by an £849,000 council tax precept.
Work on the initiative began in 2022, with continued efforts throughout 2024. The council identified potential local emergencies such as flooding, rail incidents, pandemics, explosions, extreme weather, grass fires, loss of water supply, and power outages.
Residents are advised to include in their emergency bag items such as food and water, medication, a whistle, batteries, spare clothing, toiletries, a phone charger and power bank, radio, torch, first aid kit, pen and notepad, and an emergency plan.
The card encourages people to use the QR code to locate their nearest defibrillator. This is particularly important as 70% of cardiac arrests happen at home, and quick access to a defibrillator significantly increases survival chances. The council has invested in expanding the number of defibrillators in Keynsham, with ten currently available.
The town council emphasised that the card is intended to help residents feel informed and prepared rather than worried. It provides practical advice designed to reduce stress and uncertainty during emergencies.
Reflecting on the importance of preparation, the Great Flood of 1968 remains a vivid memory in Keynsham. During that event, heavy rainfall caused a ten-foot flood wave in the Chew Valley, tragically leading to eight fatalities.
Residents are reminded that in case of an emergency, they should call 999 immediately. For locating defibrillators, people can use the QR code provided on the card or contact the town council at their correct number, 0117 986 8683.