Federal Emergency Management (FEMA) Recommendations

September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.

When you consider what supplies you would need for three days after a natural disaster, first consider what emergencies are most likely to occur in your area. Prepare accordingly.

A “supply kit” sounds like something you could carry, but it isn’t. When you consider a three-day supply of water and food per person (and pet), plus clothes, shoes, a sleeping bag or blanket for each one, plastic sheeting and duct tape, it’s hardly moveable. You need space and a convenient location.

If the emergency could be a flood, the attic or second floor could be a good storage area. If you are more likely to be trapped by a blizzard, tornado, or earthquake, a part of the garage or basement would be better.
That’s especially true since the government recommends including garbage bags and closers, toilet paper, hand tools, a bottle of bleach, moist towelettes, a first aid kit, disposable plates, cups and dinnerware, and a fire extinguisher.

They say copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records should be kept in a separate waterproof container.

Some emergency items don’t take as much room. They include:

• A flashlight, battery-operated radio and cell phone with extra batteries, and matches in a waterproof container.
• A three-day supply of medications, plus traveler’s checks, cash and change, pencil and paper, and a dust mask.
• Personal hygiene items and feminine supplies should be included.
• If you have a baby, don’t forget the disposable diapers. If you have children, include books, games and puzzles.

Getting ready for an emergency or disaster sounds like a lot of work. But if one occurs, you’ll be glad you put your time and money into the project.

By the way, if a forest fire heads your way, all you’ll need is a little cash, the ID container, your medicine and some gas in your car. Get going.

Are you ready?

This is a nationwide coordinated effort held each September to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and schools. The Cowlitz County Department of Emergency Management encourages you and your family to be prepared for disasters that may occur locally, nationally or globally.  The following is a tip sheet to help families take the necessary steps to become more disaster resilient.

Get a Kit—Get a kit of emergency supplies that will allow you and your family to survive for at least 3 days following a major disaster.  The kit should include basic items like water, food, battery-powered radio, flashlights and a first aid kit.  For suggestions on making a kit, contact the Department of Emergency Management at (360) 577-3130 or go to www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/DEM.

Make a Plan—Plan in advance what you and your family will do in an emergency.  Your plan should include a communications plan, a meeting point, and instructions on sheltering-in-place or evacuating.  Go to www.ready.gov for more information and templates to get you started.

Be Informed—Learn more about the hazards that could affect your community and the appropriate responses to take.  For more information on local hazards and emergency plans that have been established in the area, contact the Department of Emergency Management. To get the latest information, you can also subscribe to our Emergency Management blog at www.cowlitzcountydem.blogspot.com.

Get Involved—After preparing yourself and your family, take the next step: get training in first aid, CPR and emergency response.  Contact your local Red Cross chapter for more information.

With all of the natural disasters that have been happening across the world, even those close to our own area here in the glorious Northwest, it makes me want to make sure that my family is prepared.

I want to be able to survive without power for months on end if necessary. Do you know how to make water safely? Do you have enough stockpiled to keep your family fed? If you are single, make sure you have enough for yourself and possibly another guest. You never know who may simply not have been prepared.