With severe weather events occurring now more than ever, it makes sense to be prepared. During a prolonged power outage or other emergency, this means having enough food, water, and supplies to last at least a few days. Here at Y-W Electric Association, Inc., we care about your safety. Planning for an emergency today can give you more confidence to deal with severe weather and potential outages in the future.
In honor of National Preparedness Month in September, I want to remind our community members about the power of preparation. There are several practical steps you can take to keep you and your family safe.
Even at a modest level, preparation can help reduce stress and anxiety while lessening the impact of an emergency event. We recommend starting with the basics.
Below are general guidelines recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
- Assemble a grab-and-go disaster kit. Include items like nonperishable food, water — one gallon per person, per day — diapers, batteries, flashlights, prescription medications, a first-aid kit, battery-powered radio, and phone chargers.
- Develop a plan for communicating with family and friends — via text, social media, third party, etc.
- Have some extra cash available. During a power outage, electronic card readers and cash machines may not work.
- Store important documents such as birth certificates and property deeds in a safe place away from home — for example, a bank safe deposit box.
- Keep neighbors and coworkers informed of your emergency plans.
- Fill your car with gas.
- Organize your supplies and place them in an easily accessible location that all family members know about.
CARING FOR VULNERABLE FAMILY MEMBERS
If you have older family members or those with specific needs, make sure they have enough medication and supplies for a few days. If they don’t live with you, arrange for a neighbor to check on them. If a severe weather event is expected, consider having your relative stay with you if feasible; otherwise, call them daily. If you have an infant or young child, make certain that you have enough formula, diapers, medication, and other supplies on hand to sustain an outage lasting several days or more.
KEEPING PETS SAFE
For families with pets, having a plan in place in the event of a prolonged outage or an emergency will help reduce worry and stress, especially if you need to make a decision during an emergency.
- Bring pets indoors at the first sign of a storm or other emergency. Pets can become disoriented and frightened in severe weather and may wander off during an emergency.
- Microchip your pet and ensure that the contact information is up to date.
- Store pet medical records on a USB drive or in an easy-to-remember location.
- Create an emergency kit for pets (include shelf-safe food, bottled water, medications, and other supplies).
Trent Loutensock is the General Manager of Y-W Electric Association. Y-W Electric Association, Inc. is dedicated to providing high quality, reliable electric service and related products to our members at competitive prices. Our members deserve and shall receive quality service unexcelled in our industry.
