Fire Department

Have An Emergency Kit

The Do1Thing.com goal for November is to be prepared to leave your house when a disaster strikes. 2020 has proven to be quite a year, and we’re not done yet. People all around us have experienced earthquakes, windstorms, and wildfires. Hurricane season is in full swing in the southeast. A 72-hour kit, located where you exit your home, will help you to get out quickly.Having a change of clothes and a few personal items can make spending a night or two in a shelter or a hotel much more bearable. In case ATM’s aren’t working, or the internet is down, have a small supply of cash in your kit. Not all emergencies will happen when you are at home. Keep an emergency kit at work and one in your car in case an emergency happens when you are away from home. School-aged kids can keep contact numbers and your emergency pick-up plan in their backpack, along with a few snacks and games. Don’t forget a kit for your pets, including medications, toys and snacks. A more complete list of items for various emergencies can be found on the Do1Thing.com website.

Having a family emergency plan written down and your kits in place will give you peace of mind long before an emergency happens. Lastly, Daylight Saving Time ends on November 1, 2020. This is a great time to change smoke detector batteries and furnace filters, check the expiration dates on your emergency supplies, update your contact information and review your family emergency plan. Enjoy the holiday season!

–Ward Symes

            Fire Department  WashingtonCity.org/fire