Things to consider when preparing for an emergency, creating disaster kit

Sep. 11--With Colorado and other western states dealing with major wildfires, now is a good time for residents to evaluate plans and create safety kits in case of an emergency.

September is National Preparedness Month, developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in 2003, which encourages people to prepare for various disasters. The Weld County Board of Commissioners released a statement to remind individuals and families to prepare for personal and community emergencies.

"Emergencies can be small or large in scale and can range from power outages, to water supply issues, to floods, to snowstorms, to a pandemic," Commissioner Chair Mike Freeman said in the release. "Regardless of size or the cause, it is crucial for people to prepare to keep their family and their homes safe."

Weld County Office of Emergency Management says getting prepared for an emergency takes a few steps such as creating a small emergency kit and testing necessary supplies, such as flashlights and generators, before they're needed.

"Don't wait to try them when the power goes out or a tornado is barreling toward your residence," said Roy Rudisill, Office of Emergency Management director.

FEMA also states people should stay informed about the types of emergencies that could occur, make a family emergency plan and get involved in community preparedness initiatives.

The Weld County Government Facebook page will feature this month tips and other advice about preparing for emergencies. Other information may be found on the county's Office of Emergency Management website, the county emergency preparedness guide or FEMA's website.

Things to pack in an emergency kit

* Identification and important documents, including passports, birth certificates, social security cards, insurance documents, medical records and copies of utility bills.

* Non-perishable foods and bottled water for up to three days.

* Necessary medications

* Pet food, litter, vaccination records, carriers and identification

* Flashlights, batteries, backup generators and phone chargers

* First aid kit

* Blankets and extra clothing

* Maps in case of internet outage or dead batteries

* List of phone numbers and important addresses

* Cash and checks

* Small ice packs for insulin or other refrigerated medicines

* Weather radio

What to consider when creating a family emergency plan

* How to stay in contact if separated

* Identify two meeting places

* Determine multiple emergency exits for the residence

* Ensure household members have access to emergency phone numbers

* How to handle pets and possible sheltering

* What to do if a family member needs assistance

* What to do if a vehicle is not available

* Determine trusted individuals who can keep copies of important documents and be points of contact

Other things to consider when preparing for an emergency

* Become familiar with school and work emergency protocols

* Receive first aid or CPR training

* Set up an emergency savings account

* Sign up for emergency alerts

* Get pets appropriate collars, identification tags and microchips

* Learn water disinfection techniques and purchase filters

* When an active emergency alert is issued, consider moving personal items -- laptops, photos, wedding rings -- to the emergency kit.

* Keep gas tank full, if possible, when evacuations may be imminent

* Take photos and videos of other items in the home for insurance

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