Community Corner

Orange CERT: Prepare for Emergencies

Orange CERT reminds residents to prepare a disaster supply kit.

The Orange Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) reminds residents that an important part of being ready for an emergency, such as the threat of hurricanes or blizzards, is putting together a Disaster Supply Kit.

CERT member Annie Davis said residents may need to survive on their own after a disaster, meaning having enough of your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least three days. Local emergency personnel, officials and relief workers will be on scene after a disaster, but may not be able to reach everyone immediately.

"Basic services like electricity, gas, water and phones may be cut off, and you may need to evacuate to the shelter at the High Plains Community Center, 525 Orange Center Road. This is when your personal Disaster Supply Kit is important and invaluable," Davis said.

Find out what's happening in Orangewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

A supply kit is a collection of items that residents and their families may need in the event of a disaster. It would include:

  • Three-day supply of non-perishable food, per person, per day.
  • Three-day supply of water-one gallon per person, per day.
  • Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries.
  • Flashlight and extra batteries.
  • First aid kit and manual.
  • Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper).
  • Matches and waterproof container.
  • Whistle (this will help to alert your location to emergency personnel) if needed.
  • Extra clothing.
  • Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a manual can opener.
  • Photocopies of credit and identification cards.
  • Cash and coins.
  • Special-needs items such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries
  • Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles and pacifiers.
  • Items for your pets, such as food, water, leash, medications.
  • Other items to meet your unique family needs.
  • Keep all your items in an airtight, waterproof easy-to-carry container, such as a storage bin or rubber/plastic trash can, in an easy-to-reach designated location to have ready quickly. Make sure all family members know where it is kept.

"Once you've assembled and placed your kit in that location, there is something you must remember to do. Check it periodically. Replace any damaged items, or expired food items. Change stored water and food every six months. It's a good idea to rethink your needs each year and update your kit as your family needs change," Davis said.

Find out what's happening in Orangewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

For more information on preparedness and other disaster information, visit the CERT Web site at cert-orange.com; and click on the "Are Your Ready" tab on the left-hand side of the home page to find out more about what you can do to help your family in an emergency.

NOTE: The Orange Shelter does accept pets with their owners.


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