10 harmful and unproductive behaviors to avoid during a major crisis in Canada

Facing a major crisis—whether it is a natural disaster, a pandemic, a widespread power outage, or any other emergency situation—the human reaction is often tinged with fear and uncertainty. However, certain behaviors, while sometimes understandable, can prove to be not only unproductive but also harmful to the person themselves, their loved ones, and the community as a whole.

In Canada, as everywhere else, collective resilience depends largely on the ability of every citizen to act responsibly and with solidarity. Here are 10 things to avoid during a crisis:

1. Panicking and engaging in excessive buying/hoarding:

   • Why it is harmful: Emptying store shelves of essential products (food, water, disinfectant, toilet paper) creates artificial shortages, deprives others, especially the most vulnerable, and fuels a cycle of fear and competition instead of solidarity.
   • Constructive alternative: Have a reasonable emergency stock, based on official recommendations, and buy the rest normally.

2. Spreading rumors, misinformation, or fake news:

   • Why it is harmful: Erroneous information sows confusion and panic and can lead people to make dangerous decisions or ignore official advice. It erodes trust in reliable sources.
   • Constructive alternative: Always verify your sources. Rely only on information from official authorities (Health Canada, Public Safety Canada, provincial governments, local emergency services) and recognized media outlets.

3. Ignoring directives and instructions from authorities:

   • Why it is harmful: Whether it be a mandatory evacuation, a lockdown, travel restrictions, or health protection measures, these directives are put in place for your safety and that of the community. Ignoring them puts your life and the lives of others in danger and hinders the effectiveness of emergency responses.
   • Constructive alternative: Listen carefully and strictly follow all instructions from the authorities. They have the overview and data to make the best decisions.

4. Unnecessarily overloading emergency services:

   • Why it is harmful: Calling 911 for non-urgent situations, general questions, or problems that can be solved by other means diverts valuable resources that could be used for life-or-death situations.
   • Constructive alternative: Reserve 911 for true emergencies. For information, consult official websites or dedicated information hotlines.

5. Engaging in looting, violence, or other criminal activities:

   • Why it is harmful: These acts worsen the crisis by destroying property, injuring people, and undermining essential social trust. They also divert police and security resources from crisis management efforts.
   • Constructive alternative: Solidarity and mutual aid are the pillars of a resilient community. Protect yourself and respect the property of others.

6. Neglecting your own safety for non-essential reasons:

   • Why it is harmful: Venturing into dangerous areas (flooded, damaged, etc.) out of curiosity or for trivial reasons puts your life at risk and may require a rescue intervention that would divert critical resources.
   • Constructive alternative: Stay safe. Follow lockdown or evacuation orders. Assess risks before taking any action.

7. Isolating yourself completely and refusing any form of mutual aid (when safe to do so):

   • Why it is harmful: While self-reliance is important, a crisis is often a time when the community needs to stand together. Refusing to help vulnerable neighbors (if safe and permitted), share resources, or participate in recovery efforts weakens collective resilience.
   • Constructive alternative: Offer your help where you can and where it is safe, always respecting safety measures and health guidelines. Keep in touch with your loved ones and neighbors.

8. Ignoring your mental health and that of your loved ones:

   • Why it is harmful: Stress, anxiety, and fear are normal reactions to a crisis, but if not managed, they can lead to burnout, conflict, or irrational decisions.
   • Constructive alternative: Take breaks from the news, maintain routines as much as possible, talk to friends or professionals, and engage in stress-reducing activities. Be attentive to signs of distress in yourself and others.

9. Blaming and seeking culprits irrationally:

   • Why it is harmful: Finger-pointing, scapegoating, or falling into conspiracy theories diverts energy and attention from real solutions and the necessary collaboration.
   • Constructive alternative: Focus on what can be done. Unity and collaboration are essential to overcoming the challenges of a crisis.

10. Refusing any form of prior preparation:

    • Why it is harmful: Not having a family emergency plan, a basic stock of supplies, or knowing how to react in case of a power outage or evacuation makes you dependent on rescue services and others, and can turn a manageable situation into a true personal disaster.
    • Constructive alternative: Take the time, before a crisis hits, to build your emergency kit, develop a family plan, and learn about the specific risks in your region.

In times of crisis, every action counts. By avoiding these harmful behaviors and adopting an attitude of preparation, collaboration, and civic responsibility, every Canadian can contribute positively to the resilience of their community and the collective well-being.