Be Ready!

Ask yourself these questions.

1. How will I receive emergency alerts?

2. How will I communicate with my loved ones?

3. What is our evacuation route?

4. What is our shelter plan?

5. Do we have a rally point if we get separated?

As you prepare your plan tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets or specific needs like operating medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need assistance

Every emergency requires some similar basic supplies. Your kit should contain water, approximately 1 gallon per person per day. Food, several days of non-perishable food items. A quality flashlight and extra batteries. A hand crank or battery powered radio. A small first aid kit. Basic tools including pliers. A whistle to signal help. A manual can opener. Matches or a lighter. Plastic sheeting and tape. Rope or cordage. A quality knife. Medications (prescription & non prescription). Blankets or sleeping bags. Copies of ID documents. Pet food for your pets.​

Preparing ahead of time can save you precious minutes when disaster strikes. Knowing what type of disasters happen more often in your area will help you better prepare. Know emergency locations and services. Ensure important documents are stored in a secure water tight container. Know evacuation routes, & rally points. Write down or memorize important numbers instead of just storing them in your cell phone. ​Think of any special requirements for members of your family such as the elderly, small children, or those with special needs or medical concerns.

If you are able to help your neighbors, please do so. Get involved in your community, plan with friends and neighbors. Many local community groups already exist to help during disasters. Schools, shelters, animal shelters, Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), volunteer fire protection districts, the possibilities are endless.