Are You Ready?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency warned us the current hurricane season, which started June 1, could be “above normal.” Now, for our area, Hurricane Irene could mean high winds, flooding and power outages.

So what can we do to be ready?

First, get a kit.

First aid supplies, check.  And at the very least, I have fresh batteries and flashlights (better than candles or matches).  OK, I don't have a three-day supply of water and food.  Predicar con el ejemplo.  I'll work on that one.

Second, make a plan.

For example, if an elderly or disabled person in your home depends on power for medical reasons, it’s a good idea to let the City Utility Department know.  Customer service keeps a list that is updated annually.  Just call 703-257-8245. 

Planning also means doing the common sense things any neighbor should do:  Make sure your gutters are cleaned out.  Trim tree limbs.  Check your sump pump.  A few years ago, a nor’easter brought down a row of tall, shallow-rooted pine trees like dominoes in my back yard.  It can happen.

Third, stay informed.  Luckily I have a weather radio that rings like an Big Ben alarm clock when there’s a warning or watch.  If so, I make sure nothing’s loose outside, like garbage cans, and stay away from windows.

My favorite website for emergency preparedness is www.readyvirginia.gov.  You can get lots of tips there. 

The best thing I did was take the county’s condensed Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, followed by an American Red Cross First Aid and CPR class.  Now I make a better effort to know my neighbors, too, so in a disaster, I can be of help. 

The City offers extended CERT training and has graduated two classes – one as recently as May 23.  For more information, contact Bob Halsall at 703-257-8062.

I can't control the weather, but I can be ready.  You can, too.