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Are you still looking for an inexpensive, unique Christmas gift for people on your list? This year, consider giving a gift that can save lives or help loved ones manage better in an emergency, suggests Environment, Labour and Justice Minister Janice Sherry.

“Officials at the Prince Edward Island Office of Public Safety are offering a list of 12 gift ideas, that can not only stretch your dollar, but could possibly save a life in an emergency situation,” said Ms. Sherry. “Emergency preparedness and home fire safety items can be especially good ideas for people who are difficult to buy for. The gift of safety is always a gift of love.”

The following list will help you prepare for the 12 days of safety:

1. A fire extinguisher – to fight small, manageable fires (while someone else is calling 911).

2. Emergency pet care items – such as an identification tag in case your pet gets lost.

3. A new civic address sign – to replace that worn out old sign (emergency responders can’t help you if they can’t find you).

4. A corded home phone – in a power outage, cordless landline phones won’t work.

5. A battery operated flashlight and radio (or hand-crank model) – a must for every household.

6. Non-perishable food – one of the main staples in all home emergency preparedness kits.

7. A vehicle emergency kit – purchase one or make up your own.

8. A first aid kit – every home needs one and what a thoughtful gift.

9. Working smoke alarms and CO2 alarms – they do save lives!

10. A vehicle cell phone charger – in a power outage, you can recharge your phone in your own driveway (never run a car in an enclosed garage).

11. Cash – always a favourite gift, and an important item for an emergency kit.

12. A cell phone case or cover – to stop your phone from pocket dialing 911.

“An emergency preparedness item for your loved one’s home or vehicle can be a very practical gift,” said Ms. Sherry. “Whether it is a flashlight to get through a stormy night, or a new smoke alarm to replace the older model, a safety-themed gift will also give your loved ones the peace of mind that comes from being prepared.”

For more information on personal emergency preparedness or fire prevention, call toll free 1-877-894-0385, visit www.peipublicsafety.ca or follow @peipublicsafety on Twitter or Facebook.