Be Prepared, Not Scared
September is National Preparedness Month!
by Lieutenant Michael McLeieer, Olivet Fire Department
When you look at the number of disasters in the U.S., chances are every area will deal with some kind of emergency in the next decade. And between school, sports and social lives, imagine if you are at work or at home when a disaster strikes. Will your child know what to do and where to go to stay safe when you are not around?
National Preparedness Month, is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster and emergency planning now and throughout the year. The 2019 theme is “Prepared, Not Scared.”
Having a conversation now with everyone in your family about what to do, where to meet and what to place in an emergency preparedness kit is a great way to feel Prepared, Not Scared.
Here is a list of items to consider adding to your emergency preparedness kit:
- Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
- Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank (NOAA Weather Radio also, if possible).
- Medications: (7-day supply) and medical items
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Cell phone with chargers
- Family and emergency contact information
- Extra Cash: ATM’s may not work during an extended power outage or communications disruption.
- Emergency blanket
- Map(s) of the area
- First Aid Kit: Other items to have available include rain gear, towels, work gloves, scissors and duct tape
Here are some additional items to consider for all family members:
- Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, etc.)
- Baby supplies (bottles, formula., baby food and diapers)
- Games and activities for children
- Pet supplies (collar, lease, ID, food, carrier, bowl) Note: Not all shelters or hotel/motels accept pets. Make a plan which includes what to do with your pet(s) should immediate evacuation be needed.
- Extra set of car keys and house keys
- Manual can opener
“Emergencies such as severe weather, flooding, fire, gas leaks and extended power outages happen when we least expect them and emergency preparedness should be a top priority for everyone throughout Olivet and across Michigan”, according to Olivet Fire Chief John Collins.
Each week of National Preparedness Month 2019, the Ready Campaign will emphasize a unique aspect of preparedness:
· September 1 – 7: Save Early for Disaster Costs
· September 8 – 14: Make a Plan to Prepare for Disasters
· September 15 – 21: Teach Youth to Prepare for Disasters
· September 22 – 30: Get Involved in Your Community’s Preparedness
For more information about National Preparedness Month, visit www.ready.gov. Take the time now to be Prepared, Not Scared!