With severe weather events becoming more frequent and unpredictable, now more than ever, it makes sense to be prepared. Whether it’s a prolonged power outage, hurricane, or other emergency, having enough food, water, and essential supplies to last at least a few days can make all the difference. In honor of National Preparedness Month this September, Eastern Virginia CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) encourages everyone in our community to embrace the power of preparation. While you don’t need to become a full-fledged survivalist or emergency readiness enthusiast, taking a few practical steps can go a long way in keeping your family safe. 〰️

Preparedness Tips

In honor of National Preparedness Month in September, Eastern VA CERT wants to remind members of our community about the power of preparation. While you don’t have to achieve a “doomsday prepper” level of preparedness, 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 and lessen the impact of an emergency event. We recommend starting with the basics. Here are general guidelines recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency: 

  • Assemble a grab-and-go disaster kit. Include items like nonperishable food, water (1 gallon per person, per day), diapers, batteries, flashlights, prescription medications, first-aid kit, battery-powered radio and phone chargers. 

  • Develop a plan for communicating with family and friends (i.e., via text, social media, third party, etc.). 

  • Have some extra cash available. During power outages, electronic card readers and cash machines may not work. 

  • Store important documents (birth certificates, property deed, etc.) in safe place away from home (i.e., a bank safe deposit box). 

  • Keep neighbors and coworkers appraised of your emergency plans. 

  • Fill your car with gas. 

  • Organize your supplies so they are together in an easily accessible location that family members know about. 

CARING FOR VULNERABLE FAMILY MEMBERS 

If you have older family members or those with special 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 in 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 children, make certain that you have ample formula, diapers, medication and other supplies on hand to weather an outage lasting several days or more. 

KEEPING FOUR-LEGGED FAMILY MEMBERS 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 during severe weather. 

  • Create an emergency kit for pets. Include shelf-safe food, bottled water, medications and other supplies.