Yakima Prepare Now: Red Cross Urges Disaster Readiness

Are you prepared for a natural disaster? Could you survive without power for more than 3 days? Are you ready for no power for up to three days?

DID YOU DROP COVER AND HOLD?

The emergency alert system in Washington state was used to announce the test for the great shakeout earthquake drill at 10:16 am. Did you drop, cover and hold? It's good to practice that since Washington is ranked second behind California for the risk of being hit by an earthquake. Yes we live in earthquake and volcano country and frankly it's possible both could happen at the same time.

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MAKE THIS FALL THE TIME YOU GET PREPARED

The American Red Cross Northwest Region and the Washington State Department of Health urging everyone to get ready by making preparedness a priority...this fall.
Washington State is no stranger to natural disasters from earthquakes to volcanos we’ve seen disasters first hand. Area wildfires are a perfect example of natural disasters we see every year in Yakima County.

Red Cross officials say first, build your emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contacts.

A FAMILY PLAN IS VITAL

Next, plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and what to do if you have to evacuate. Coordinate your plan with your child’s school, your work and your community’s emergency plans. Don’t forget to include your pets. Remember, if you and your family need to evacuate, so does your pet. Know in advance which pet-friendly hotels are in your area, and where your pets can stay in an emergency situation.