September is National Preparedness Month, and it is an appropriate time to think about your own emergency preparedness. The subject of crisis management and preparation can be rather complex. Actions of citizens and local government range from mitigation, to planning, response and recovery. In this short article, I'll attempt to distill the subject to 10 key points.
First Examine and understand your hazards. This is the basic first step. Clearly you do not need to spend precious time reviewing hurricane procedures here in the Truckee Meadows. Our high-risk hazards are wildland fires, earthquakes, floods, and accidents involving hazardous materials. The Incline Village has winter avalanche threats as well.
Second Make a plan. Consider the needs of family members, the elderly, and special needs. Have two rally points to meet in case of disaster. One place in your neighborhood, and one farther away. Also have a friend or relative outside the area that you and your loved ones can contact to let each other know you are safe. Sometimes it is easier to call outside the State than within the disaster area.
Third Assemble a kit. Include enough food and water for at least three days. One gallon of water per day, per person is the general rule. Don't forget basic first aid supplies, flashlight, and batteries. You also need a portable radio, a weather radio is a great idea. You may want a separate kit for home, automobile, and work.
Fourth Stay informed. Disaster information will be broadcast over the internet and television stations. However, the most reliable method of receiving information is often a simple AM radio. Monitor local news to stay abreast of local hazards and instructions from public safety officials.
Fifth Consider your pets. Washoe County disaster shelters are considered "pet friendly." Regional Animal Control officers will establish pet areas. You should include your pets in your emergency plans and provide for them in your disaster supplies kit.
Sixth If you own a business, develop a continuity of operations (COOP) plan. The Small Business Association reports that about 20 percent of small business cannot recover after a disaster. With COOP planning you can avoid this "disaster after a disaster." Contact your local emergency manager for more information.
Seventh Learn basic first aid and CPR. Organizations like the American Red Cross offer regular classes. These skills could save a loved one someday. If your neighbor attends as well, they may even be in a position to save you. Now that is a return on your investment.
Eighth Review the procedures for turning off your gas, water and electricity. Take the time to do a quick inspection of your home and check your smoke alarm while you are at it. This is also the time to make sure that bookcases are secured to your walls, and ensure that object will not fall on you during an earthquake.
Ninth Organize your important papers and secure them in appropriate containers. If you need to evacuate, you will be able to quickly save your documents. You may want to store them in a waterproof container inside a fireproof safe, for example. Consider including some cash in case the ATM machines are not working.
Tenth Think about becoming a volunteer. There are several worthwhile organizations in our area that will provide training, equipment, and peace of mind. The Washoe County Sheriff's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a great organization, and don't forget about the American Red Cross.
Again, these actions are certainly not all-inclusive, but they should give you a great starting point. Please take some time this month to reflect on your own personal level of preparedness. For more information, be sure to visit www.ReadyWashoe.com.
Aaron Kenneston is Washoe County emergency manager.
