Each month we share simple ways to become prepared for when flooding, wildfires or any other calamity either traps us at home or forces us to find other shelter. Since September is Emergency Preparedness Month, it’s time to take it up a notch.
What if you’re jolted awake at 2 a.m. by a buzzing AlertSense message or your ShakeAlert app goes off? You may feel shaking and see furniture sliding around. It’s the middle of the night and you’re disoriented. All the more reason to have a “no thought necessary” response ready.
If you follow September’s tip to Prepare in a Year, you’ll be prepared. First, find a box or storage bin that will fit under or your bed. Here’s what you should put in that box or bin:
- Sturdy shoes – to protect your feet from broken glass
- Work gloves, preferably leather – to protect your hands
- Flashlight and light sticks – to see in the dark
- Whistle – to summon help
- Tape – to seal windows or post a “HELP” (or “OK”) sign
You might also want to have:
- Notepad and marker – for signs or notes
- Out-of-area “Contacts” card
- Hard hat – for protection (bicycle helmet would work)
- Spare pair of glasses
- Water, snack, pain reliever
These items will help you get out of bed and take the next steps. Depending on the nature of the emergency, you may need to grab your Go! Kit and leave quickly or you may need to shelter where you are and rely on your Two Weeks Ready kit.
Either way, being prepared can bring peace of mind – for you and those who depend on you.
Amy Cloud is the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. She was born and raised locally, leaving for Whitman College and work in Seattle, Knoxville and Washington, D.C. She returned to work as Supervising News Producer and reporter for KVOS-TV’s NewsView before switching to communications for WWU, PeaceHealth and the City of Bellingham. She also co-chairs the Community PIO Group and is a member of the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues.
