Coloradans, Are You Prepared If An Emergency Strikes?

Hundreds of Coloradans learned a harsh lesson in emergency preparedness this past February and during the snowstorm of December 2007: snowstorms can leave you stuck in your home for days, retail establishments may sell out of key merchandise, and key roads and highways often are impassable. Now imagine an emergency or disaster on a scale much larger than the blizzards we experienced, such as an outbreak of pandemic influenza or an extended power outage – both of which could potentially affect thousands of Coloradans and could temporarily paralyze the state. How prepared would Colorado residents be in the case of such an emergency?

Surveys both in Colorado and nationally demonstrate that more than half of all Americans are not prepared for emergencies. In fact, most say they do not think a public health crisis is likely, even though our country has experienced three pandemic flu outbreaks in the last century. However, pandemics are unpredictable. And as history has shown us, another pandemic is not a matter of if, but a matter of when.

Just like a working smoke detector in your home provides peace of mind against disaster, maintaining an emergency preparedness kit in your home is the best way to provide for yourself and your family should a sudden emergency strike. Depending on the extent of the crisis, residents could be forced to improvise and use what they have on hand to get by for anywhere from three days to two weeks. Stocking a kit with certain essential items can truly make a difference when it’s needed most.

From March 1-9, 2008, the Emergency Preparedness and Response Division (EPRD) of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is encouraging the public to assemble an emergency preparedness kit and customize it for your family’s needs. It’s easier than you think. Visit your local Wal-Mart store or Sam’s Club location during Emergency Preparedness Week to view a display of sample emergency preparedness kit items and pick up a checklist to help you shop for your emergency kit.

While there are many items that might seem essential for comfort, emergency preparedness kits should at least contain the very basic essentials for each person in your family – including bottled water, non-perishable food and medical supplies (including prescriptions). There are many items in your household already. Simply review the calculator and checklist, determine which items you already have, and identify the items you still need.

Here are a few additional tips for building an emergency preparedness kit:

Water: store 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation in clean plastic containers. In warmer months more water may be necessary.

Food: store food that won’t expire quickly and does not have to be heated or cooked. Choose foods that your family will eat, including protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, canned foods and juices, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts, crackers and baby foods.

Remember to pack a manual can opener, cups and eating utensils. And don’t forget to include food and water for your family pets, too.

Warmth: Colorado weather can change in a matter of minutes. It is important to think about warmth. It is possible that the power will be out and you will not have heat. Have warm clothing for each family member, including a jacket or coat, a long-sleeve shirt, sturdy shoes, a hat and gloves. Have a sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.

Basic Supplies: Store a flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, utility knife, local map, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, soap, garbage bags and other sanitation supplies, plastic sheeting and duct tape, as well as extra cash and identification. Periodically rotate your extra batteries to be sure they work when you need them.

Special Items: Think about your family’s unique needs. Include diapers, formula, bottles, prescription medications, eyeglasses, pet food, books, paper, pens, a deck of card or other forms of entertainment.

Spread out the cost by buying a few items each time you shop.

Start by collecting a three-day supply of items that are consumable, such as food, water and medication. Once you have gathered your three-day supply, start building a three-week supply.

Keep your kit in a dry location that is easily accessible. For portability, store your items in a large plastic container or new trashcan with lid, suitcase, duffle bag, backpack or footlocker.

Set up a schedule to evaluate, rotate and replenish your kit every six months.

If space limitations are an issue, families should work closely with neighbors or friends to develop and store items together.

If you ever have any questions about emergency preparedness in Colorado, please remember to call your local public health official or your local emergency manager who can help you with specifics on building a kit and preparing your family for any emergency.

Chris Lindley, Emergency Preparedness and Response Division (EPRD)