September is Preparedness Month

The National Security Council has declared September as Preparedness Month in order to help families have a plan should an emergency occur. Of course, you should always call 911 if you are in immediate danger or need emergency help. But what if a winter storm knocks out your area’s power and there is no telling when it will come back on? Or if a pipe bursts and you suddenly find yourself ankle deep in water? Do you have a plan?

Prepare your family. Have each member of your family aware of what to do in case of different disasters. Plan on having a fire drill (especially with children) and a specific location to meet in case members are separated. If you have elderly or disabled people living with you, be sure to include their essentials should they be forced to evacuate (ie medications, medical equipment, doctor information).

Have your important info handy. Program your utility companies’ phone numbers into your phone, along with your insurance contacts (phone numbers and policy info). Keep all vital documents in a waterproof safe, or off-site in a safety deposit box.

Prepare your home. Have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed and check the batteries twice a year. According to the DHS, it is recommended that each household have an emergency kit in a convenient location. This kit should include:

Water-one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
Food-at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Manual can opener for food
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Prepare your yard. Be sure to protect outdoor pipes if the temps fall below freezing. Trim overhanging branches away from power lines and your home. Remove all debris from gutters (after leaves have fallen) to prevent possible ice dams from forming.

Prepare your car. Make sure your car is running properly before traveling any distance away from your normal route, and keep your gas tank well-above empty. If you live in areas where the wind chill factor dips below freezing, have a box in your car for emergencies. Include the following: