Disasters don’t wait. That’s why it’s a good idea to get prepared in advance of a crisis. Each September, the City of San Marcos recognizes “National Preparedness Month” as a way to encourage and empower community members to plan ahead for emergencies.
The City prepares for emergencies through regular trainings and emergency exercises, and needs residents, businesses, schools and other community organizations to do their part to be prepared. In this uncertain climate of COVID-19, it is more important than ever to take action and plan ahead for disaster. This will make your response time during an actual crisis much quicker.
Establish an emergency plan
Be proactive and put an emergency plan in place for you and your family before you need it. Make sure your plan is personalized and meets the specific needs of your family or business. Here are some questions to get the planning process started:
•How will we get emergency alerts and warnings?
•How will we get to safe locations during an emergency?
•How will we get in touch if cell phones, internet or landlines don’t work?
•How will we let loved ones know we are safe?
•How will we get to our meeting place after the emergency?
Prepare an emergency supply kit
In the event of an emergency, you may be without immediate help for up to 72 hours. Prepare emergency supply kits for your home, office and vehicle in the event you are unable to get help immediately and need to be self-sufficient. Not sure where to begin? Here’s a good start:
•A three- to five-day supply of non-perishable food items and water, pet food (if you have animals), and a can opener.
•A printed contact list, including contact information for family and service providers (such as insurance companies).
•A first aid kit that includes any needed medications.
•One change of clothes/shoes per person.
•Flashlights and a radio with extra batteries.
•Cash and important documents.
•Work gloves.
•Sanitation and hygiene supplies.
•Children’s books and/or toys, if you have kids.
Know what to do and where to go in an emergency
