Are You Prepared For a Disaster Yakima? It’s Preparedness Month

Are you prepared for a natural disaster? Could you survive without power for more than 3 days?  The American Red Cross Northwest Region and the Washington State Department of Health urges everyone to get ready by making preparedness a priority this September during National Preparedness Month.

We've seen our share of natural disasters in Yakima County

Washington State is no stranger to natural disasters from earthquakes to volcanoes we’ve seen disasters first hand. Area wildfires are a perfect example of  natural disasters we see every year in Yakima County. “Disasters can happen anywhere, anytime. We urge people to prepare now and be ready if an emergency occurs in their home or in our local community,” said Red Cross Northwest Region CEO Alex Dieffenbach. “Helping people during disasters is at the heart of our mission and climate change is a serious threat we are all facing. Help keep your loved ones safe - get Red Cross Ready today.”

So do you have your emergency kit prepared? Do you have pets?

Red Cross officials say first, build your emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information.
Next, plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and what to do if you have to evacuate. Coordinate your plan with your child’s school, your work and your community’s emergency plans. Don’t forget to include your pets. Remember, if you and your family need to evacuate, so does your pet. Know in advance which pet-friendly hotels are in your area, and where your pets can stay in an emergency situation.

Stay informed by listening to KIT

Finally, plan to stay informed by finding out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders.
Red Cross officials add that disasters can be scary for children. They say it’s vital that you talk with your kids about preparing for emergencies.
The Red Cross has free programs and tools to help, visit redcross.org/youthprep for more information.