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(Article provided as a courtesy of Barbour County Office of Emergency Management)
As disasters like floods, winter storms, and power outages become increasingly common, Barbour County officials and emergency management are urging families to develop a clear emergency plan tailored to their needs, including provisions for beloved pets. Emergency preparedness can prevent confusion and danger during a crisis, and a simple, well-thought-out plan can save lives.
Why Have a Family Emergency Plan?
Preparing for the unexpected helps avoid last-minute panic and ensures that all family members, including children and elderly relatives, know what to do in case of an emergency. Having a plan in place means everyone is better prepared to take immediate, lifesaving action if disaster strikes, reducing stress and confusion.
Families should consider their specific needs, including medical concerns, mobility issues, and of course, any pets they may have. Those that are oxygen dependent, make sure you have emergency supply through your provider if possible. A comprehensive family emergency plan covers a variety of scenarios and provides instructions for evacuation, sheltering in place, and gathering critical supplies.
Developing Your Family Emergency Plan
A robust emergency plan should include the following:
Evacuation Routes and Meeting Spots: Decide on multiple escape routes from your home and neighborhood and a family meeting point where everyone can gather. Ensure each member of your household is familiar with these paths.
Emergency Contacts: Create a contact list of family members, friends, and emergency services. Store it in a waterproof container or save it to your mobile device, but also print a copy in case of power outages.
Disaster Supply Kit: Prepare a kit with non-perishable food, water, medications, a first-aid kit, flashlights, blankets, and necessary items for each family member.
Emergency Drills: Practice emergency drills regularly, especially with children, to build muscle memory. Practicing steps helps keep everyone calm and prepared if an actual emergency occurs.
Don’t Forget Your Pets
Pets are family members too and should be included in emergency plans. Animal shelter facilities may not be available during disasters, and some evacuation centers may not accept pets.
Here’s how you can prepare for your pets in an emergency:
Pet ID and Records: Ensure all pets have collars with ID tags, and consider microchipping them for additional safety. Keep a copy of their vaccination records in your emergency kit.
Pet Evacuation Kit: Assemble a kit with food, water, bowls, medications, toys, and a leash. Include items like a portable crate or bed for comfort and containment.
Taking these steps now can make a huge difference in a crisis. Preparedness is the best defense against uncertainty and there is no better time to take actions to prepare and plan than today.
Stay Informed
In an emergency, reliable information is critical. Stay connected to local news, follow Barbour County Emergency Management on social media, and sign up for emergency alerts to receive the latest updates and instructions. Signup for emergency alerts for Barbour County by signing up for Hyper-Reach Alerts by calling or texting “Alerts” to 304-823-4570.
Building Resilience Together
A solid family emergency plan ensures everyone is better prepared to handle the uncertainties of a crisis. For residents of Barbour County, prioritizing these preparations strengthens not only individual families but the entire community, ensuring Barbour County remains resilient and connected in the face of adversity. By taking these steps now you can make a huge difference in a crisis. Preparedness is the best defense against uncertainty and there is no better time to take actions to prepare and plan than today. Be prepared, not scared Barbour County.
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