Fire Department

Be Prepared For An Emergency

Do1Thing.com in June focuses on identifying unique family needs in your household. Meeting the needs of young children, older family members and pets warrant a little extra caution when planning for a disaster or evacuation. An emergency can happen while you are away and the children are at home. Share your emergency preparedness plan with your family members, both young and old. Make sure they know where the emergency supplies are and how to access them. In the event you cannot get home quickly, make arrangements to have a neighbor or friend check in on younger children or seniors living at home until you arrive. Have enough health-related supplies, such as an extra pair of glasses, glucometer and test strips to last a few days.If you have to evacuate your home, have at least a seven-day supply of medications, written prescriptions and a detailed medical history to assist in getting a refill in another location. If you have pets, be sure to have an appropriate size pet carrier, several days of food and any medications needed.In an emergency, the local 911 system may be overwhelmed, leaving you unable to make phone calls. Designate a trusted out-of-town friend or relative to be a clearing house for family information using text messages. Please refer to Do1Thing.com for more information. Have a safe and enjoyable spring.

–Ward Symes

            Fire Department  WashingtonCity.org/fire