National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month!

That means it’s a great time to prepare yourself and your family for possible disasters or emergencies.

The King County Office of Emergency Management is a great resource for learning about how to prepare. The KCOEM also coordinates with first responders, government agencies and other partners in emergency preparedness and response. When there isn’t an emergency, they're getting ready for the next one.

Here’s what they suggest putting in your home’s emergency kit:

• Water

  • One gallon per person per day (for drinking, washing, cooking)

• Food

  • Non-perishable, ready to eat food

  • Items you like to eat

  • Monitor expiration dates and replace as needed

• First Aid supplies

  • Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, scissors, tweezers, and pain-relief medication

  • Prescriptions and personal medical equipment

• Electronics

  • Light sources that are hand-cranked or battery powered

  • Portable radio (a great way to stay informed) and extra batteries

  • Alternate means to charge your phone or computer

• Clothing

  • At least one extra set of warm clothing

  • Rainproof outer clothing and boots to keep you dry

  • Comfortable, sturdy shoes in case you need to walk long distances

Don’t forget to prepare for your pets, too!

Two other great resources to get prepared are: ready.gov and epa.gov

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[Visual: Graphic from ready.gov that reads The Time to Prepare is Now. Gather supplies for your family, pets and service animals. Food and water, medications, flashlights, chargers, IDs and insurance documents.]