Gratiot Disaster Services

The American Red Cross wants families to have the confidence and peace of mind that goes along with knowing they are prepared for an emergency. We are committed to not only responding to help meet the needs of disaster victims, but also to teaching people the skills they need to keep their families safe in an emergency.

Disaster can happen at any time in any place. Every region of our country is vulnerable to disasters of some type, like flooding, severe storms, high winds, power outages, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes or wildfires. Just last year the Red Cross responded to almost 75,000 disasters.

While people think it’s important to prepare for a disaster, very few have actually taken the easy steps required to prepare. Preparedness isn’t overwhelming or scary, nor is it expensive or time consuming. Families can prepare for a disaster by taking three simple actions:

1. GET A KIT

Families who have a kit will feel empowered to not only help themselves in an emergency but may also be prepared to help a friend, family member or neighbor in need.

The American Red Cross recommends that your kit should contain enough supplies, like bottled water, nonperishable food, first aid supplies and medications, for each family member for three days. As well as a flashlight, radio and extra batteries. Remember to check your kit every six months and replace expired items.

2. MAKE A PLAN

As part of making a plan, the American Red Cross recommends developing and practicing an evacuation and communications plan. Each person should know how to reach family members and where to meet if you can’t go home. Families should also choose an out-of-state relative or friend as an emergency contact.

If you own a pet, part of your family plan should be to make arrangements for your pet in case you need to evacuate. Some hotels will allow pets, so it’s a good idea to have a list of resources in your disaster kit.

3. BE INFORMED

The Red Cross suggests that families learn about what type of disasters or emergencies are most likely to occur where you live, work and play.

First Aid and CPR courses are also a vital component of disaster preparedness. Contact Don Stabenow at 463-3209 at the Gratiot Service Center for more information.

Visit the disaster preparedness tutorial at www.redcross.org/BeRedCrossReady.