Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Are you Ready?

As the horrific and tragic events of last week's earthquake and tsunami in Japan remind us, disaster can strike anywhere with little to no warning. We are also reminded that an event on the other side of the ocean can impact lives—and livelihoods—here in Spokane. It is important to ensure that you and your family are taking steps to make yourselves more aware and more prepared, in case of an emergency here in Spokane.

There are many things you can do. And they all start with three simple steps:

1. Make a plan: Determine where your family would meet in case of emergency. Assume that your mobile phone network will be overloaded. Identify an out-of-state contact who could serve as your family’s coordinator.

2. Make a kit: Assume you will need food and water for at least 72 hours for every member of your family, including any pets. Be sure to pack first-aid supplies, a flashlight and emergency radio and other key items (follow this link to see a more complete list.)

3. Get trained: Join the Spokane CERT Team. CERT Teams are a valuable resource for our community, and training is free and open to the public. Learn CPR and basic first aid.

Resiliency begins with the readiness of every household and every neighborhood, and preparedness is an ongoing effort. Every step helps.

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