Personal Preparation
IT'S NOT A MATTER OF IF, BUT WHEN.
At some point, you will face a significant emergency or disaster situation.
Will you be ready to make it through and eventually return to some sense of normal?
Emergencies and disasters happen. We generally don't know what will happen, when it will happen or where we will be when it happens. But there are simple things we can do to prepare. Even short-lived power outages and transportation delays can become a crisis if you don't have a plan in place, basic food and comfort supplies handy and access to critical resources. In a large disaster, the things you rely on everyday will be significantly disrupted and help may be weeks away.
Roads and bridges may be damaged and unsafe to use. All transportation (including cars, buses, and trains) could stop. People won’t be able to get anywhere easily.
Stores (if opened) will quickly run out of supplies and may only accept cash payments.
Utilities (including electricity, water and sewer systems) may be damaged and unavailable for weeks.
Without power, gas stations can’t pump gasoline and ATM machines can’t dispense cash.
Phones (both home and cell), cable TV and Internet connections may not work. Even texting may be blocked. Batteries used for cell phone, radio and flashlights will quickly die.
Hospitals will likely be overwhelmed with injured people.
Police, fire and other emergency personnel will be busy with the most urgent life and safety needs.
The 11 Essential Items (to assure your wellbeing)
What you need to survive and where to get it.
Online resources to buy your supplies and equipment.
What you need to do for a personal/family emergency plan.
How to get closer to the community at large for safety, security and fun.
Where to get good information during and following a disaster.
What to know about the human response to an emergency.
If you know someone that may be at risk due to medical conditions, age or other challenging factors, check to see if they are prepared for a long disaster. This could easily be a life or death situation during a disaster. Having medical supplies and keeping medical equipment operating when there is no electrical power should be considered.
Snohomish County has a great collection of information that details emergency awareness and preparation. Check it out to be better informed and hopefully better prepared for our next disaster
When an emergency happens it is chaotic and we don't respond normally. To save lives a system was developed where you can keep a family profile that is only used when you call 911. The 911 operator can access this information and get you the needed help with more detail. You will need less information in the midst of an emergency. You provide as much information as you are comfortable with to the profile. The service is free and could save your life. Sign up today.