Emergency Preparedness

As we have seen recently, cold weather can bring lots of challenges. Here are a few tips to stay safe when it snows and during power outages:

First and foremost, use caution around debris and downed power lines. Be mindful of trees and branches that have been uprooted or broken but have not fallen all the way to the ground
Rake/clear snow off of patio overhangs, sheds, carports, and other structures, especially those with flat roofs. Snow, especially when rain soaks it, can become very heavy and cause roofs to collapse. Anyone remember 12/29/1996? It snowed heavily that day, and at the Port of Edmonds Marina there were collapsed roofs, more than 200 boats sank, and there was extensive damage
Keep your driveway and walkway clear of snow and debris. Use sand, salt, or kitty litter to provide traction. Better yet, keep some in your car
Clear large icicles from roofs so they do not fall and hit someone when they begin to melt
Monitor snow load on trees and bushes and remove snow if the branches get too heavy
Keep faucets dripping during freezing temps to prevent pipes from freezing (and bursting). If they do, give me a call and I can refer you to some great plumbers
If you are driving for the holidays, find winter driving tips HERE.

26+ Basic Supplies to have in case of EMERGENCY

Water: one gallon per person per day for 3+ days
Food: At least a 3+ day supply of non-perishable food
Can Opener
Battery-operated or hand crank radio
Flashlight + extra batteries
First Aid Kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask to help filter contaminated air, plastic sheeting, and duct tape for sheltering in place
Moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Local maps
Copies of important family documents (ID, insurance policies, bank accounts). Put in a waterproof portable container
Cash or traveler’s checks
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothes, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes
Household chlorine bleach (disinfect 9/1 water/bleach)
Fire Extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, paper plate, eating utensils, paper towels
Paper and pencil/pen
Emergency reference material such as a first aid book
Books, games, cards, other activities for kids
Prescription medications, extra glasses
Infant formula and diapers
Pet Food, pet carrier, extra water for your pet

One good New Year’s Resolution: Complete your Emergency Kit!! Consider buddying up with your neighbor, and see who can finish their list first. Loser buys the winner ____? Another idea: Divide and conquer. Have different family members purchase a few items on the list. Next month, add a few more items until you’re finished.