The Power of Preparation

Sometimes, severe weather events are forecasted, but sometimes they strike with little to no warning. That’s why it’s important to be prepared for a prolonged power outage or other emergency, which means having enough food, water, and supplies to last at least a few days.

In honor of National Preparedness Month in September, we’d like to remind our members about the power of preparation. While specific needs vary by household, 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. Here are general guidelines recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency:

• Assemble a grab-and-go disaster kit. Include items like nonperishable food, water (one gallon per person, per day), diapers, batteries, flashlights, prescription medications, a first-aid kit, a battery-powered radio, and phone chargers.
• Develop a plan for communicating with family and friends (via text, social media, third party, etc.).
• Have some extra cash available; during a power outage, electronic card readers and cash machines may not work.
• Store important documents (birth certificates, property deed, etc.) in a safe place away from home, for example, in a bank safe deposit box.
• Keep neighbors and coworkers apprised of your emergency plans.
• Fill your car with gas or make sure your electric vehicle is fully charged.
• 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 him or her 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 4-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.

• Bring pets indoors at the first sign of a storm or other emergency. Pets can become disoriented and frightened during severe weather and may wander off during an emergency.
• Microchip your pet and ensure the contact information is up to date, and also keep tags or other visible identifi cation including your contact information, on your pet.
• Create an emergency kit for pets (include shelf-safe food, bottled water, medications, and other supplies).

At URE, we care about your safety. Planning for an emergency situation today can give you more confidence to deal with severe weather and potential power outages in the future. For more tips on being prepared for an outage, visit the Be Prepared page.