STAFF REPORTS
When you “spring” your clocks forward on March 14 for Daylight Savings Time, take the time to check your family’s emergency preparedness status – and don’t forget to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.
“A little forethought, a few extras in the pantry, and an emergency plan that you and your family all know about can help you in most all emergency situations,” said Chuck Chapman, RN, emergency preparedness coordinator for the Hays County Personal Health Department.
The list below can get you started, Chapman said. “These are a few of the precautions and preparations you can take to protect you and your family. In a time of need, emergency resources are limited. By taking the time now to ensure your own safety, you allow those resources to help those truly in need.”
Get informed: Texas is prone to disasters of all kinds. Find out what hazards are common where you live. When severe weather threatens, tune in to local radio, television or get information online from the National Weather Service.
Make a family disaster plan: All families are different, so make a plan that fits your family. Each member needs to understand the plan and know which tasks he or she will be asked to do. You need to know escape routes from each room in your house as well as from your neighborhood.
Family communication: It’s important to plan how family members will contact one another if they are separated during an emergency. Complete a card for each family member listing the phone number of an out-of-town contact and other important numbers. Everyone should keep a card in a wallet, purse or backpack.
Utility shut-off and safety: For some types of disasters, you may need to disconnect utility services to your home. Natural gas leaks are the number one cause of fires after a disaster. Never turn gas service back on yourself.
Insurance and vital records: Make photocopies of your important documents and secure them in a safe place away from your home, or store in a container you can easily take with you. Here’s a list of some documents you might want to copy:
Name of medications
Insurance policies
Driver’s license, passport or other photo ID
Bank account information
Credit card information
Financial records
Inventory of home possessions
Cash and travelers checks
Prepare a disaster supplies kit: If you are forced to shelter in place or evacuate your home, you may not have time to gather all the necessities for keeping your family safe and comfortable. Assemble a kit now with enough supplies to take care of each family member for at least three days. It’s best to store your supplies in airtight, portable containers but something as simple as plastic trash bags or a backpack will work. Be sure to check your kit regularly and replace items that expire such as batteries, water and food. A basic kit should include: water, food, clothing, first aid kit, emergency tools, batteries, battery operated radio, toilet paper, whistle, shovel, state map, wet wipes and garbage bags, special needs items for yourself, babies and pets.
You can learn more at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/preparedness/ or by calling the PHD Office of Emergency Preparedness at 512-393-5538.
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