September is designated as “National Preparedness Month”.  If you followed our information about Preparedness on this webpage and on our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/NWEmergencyManagement/ you might already be prepared so we won’t go into much detail but cover the key points in Preparedness.

  1. The first thing we should do is a realistic risk assessment – sounds difficult but it really isn’t.    We are primarily dealing with weather-related issues so focus on that area, remembering that what you prepare to do for severe weather can be used for non-weather events.   We start by listing weather events by frequency and severity.   The ones that are probably most important are those weather events that occur more frequently and are more severe as what you prepare for them can be used in less severe circumstances.
  2. Now knowing what to prepare for follow the “be prepared” links on this page and learn what you need to do.   In addition to preparing for the specific weather event remember to look at the options that may be necessary such as evacuation or sheltering in place.   The plan can be as in-depth as you want or something as simple as a checklist.   With the intent to use your plan for different events probably a checklist format would work the best.
  3. Put your plan in place, that is look at all aspects of your plan and ensure you have everything you need.  For those items that you have to purchase make a list and fit these items into your budget and get them when you can.  Whether it is to build an emergency food stock or purchase boots for high water.  When you plan your purchases try to get items that have multiple uses, such as insulated high-water boots that can be used in snow and water and foods that you use regularly so you can rotate your supplies.
  4. Drill your plan – If you are single, a couple, or a family make sure all involved are aware of the plan and know what it contains.   The drill could be something as simple as going down the list and checking the items mentioned in the plan or actually carrying out what the plan calls for.
  5. Lastly,  Now that you have a workable plan and you are ready for the next storm you need adequate notice to implement the plan.   You have to make it a habit to check the current weather and future weather forecasts on a regular basis.   If you connect this to something you do every day, such as checking your email or social media accounts, it will be a habit in no time.   If you use your smartphone get an app that provides you with the latest weather and alerts.   The difference between having several hours to a day’s notice to get ready versus getting notice and having to do something immediately greatly increases one survivability in an emergency.