Emergency Preparedness & Public Safety By NEIL KENNEDY
There are many ways you can be better prepared for disaster Do you have a plan for your home and family if disaster strikes ?
A family plan provides a sense of security in a time that might be chaotic , and allows you to assemble needed supplies . The plan is a living document that will change with your circumstances . For instance , if you work away from home , or have children in school , the plan would include what each family member does in the event they are away from home when disaster hits . After retirement , or when the children live on their own , the plan will change .
So first , think about your family .
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Think of the different scenarios where they might be when a disaster strikes . Discuss a plan for what each family member should do . Is there a friend or family member they can go to if they are across the river shopping in Wilsonville ? Who will feed and care for family pets when no one can get home to do that ? What about family members who may need medications or oxygen ? Do your vehicles have emergency kits to assist you if you can ’ t get home ?
Next , think about likely disasters . They may include an earthquake , fire , freezing rain , excessive heat or a prolonged loss of electricity . It ’ s important to have a plan for these emergencies .
Earthquakes
Prepare your home
Secure heavy items such as bookshelves , TVs , the water heater , etc . to the wall with straps . Prepare your family Keep shoes and a flashlight secure under each bed or in a bedside table in
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case the floor is covered with glass from broken windows .
Discuss and practice what to do in an earthquake , and where to meet up when it ’ s over . Prepare your supplies Tarps and / or thick poly sheeting ( i . e .: visqueen ) are helpful for leaks , window breakage and basic shelter ; make sure to have duct tape or a staple gun to secure it . Tent or RV ready to use for shelter A grill or portable propane stove may be needed for preparing hot meals .
Know where your stored first aid supplies are located .
For disasters when leaving your home
Have a plan ready for where you will go and how you will get there .
A second home ? Family / friends out of the area ?
Full tank of gas , maps , food and water for the trip Have a go bag packed and ready Medications , medical devices ,
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important documents Clothing to get you through a few days Pet supplies – including a carrier in case you have to stay in a shelter Laptops , photo albums , precious items Phone charger and other necessary equipment When electricity is out due to storms or excessive heat Do your neighbors have a generator or way to produce heat or AC ? In an emergency , Charbonneau has a large generator that will power essential activities at the Activity Center , and will be available to charge devices , maintain medical equipment such as oxygen , supply refrigeration for medications as well as heat or air conditioning .
Can you visit friends or family out of the area until our electricity returns ?
Plan with your family how to handle these various scenarios before a disaster strikes . Not every family ’ s plan will be the same , though just having a plan can make a big difference in your family ’ s safety and well-being .
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