TOWN OF CLARENCE

SUPERVISOR'S COLUMN FOR SEPTEMBER 2008

Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Readiness

It seems like only yesterday, but the "October 'Surprise' Storm" occurred almost two years ago. Given that September is also Preparedness Month, now is the time to review how you can be prepared, and help the Town out, in case of an emergency or disaster.

First, I strongly recommend that you sign-up with NY-ALERT at www.nyalert.gov. This website allows you to receive emergency information via many methods (e.g., cell phone, text messaging, pagers, and) e-mail. If you do not have web access, you can sign up by calling 1-888-697-6972.

Second, you should have an emergency plan for your household. Plan to meet your family in case you are separated. Be sure everyone in your household knows where to find shelter from all hazards that effect your area. Choose an out-of-town contact for everyone to call to say they are safe. In case land and/or cell phone lines are inoperable, you may want to consider purchasing a Family Radio Service (FRS) system, a more modern "walkie talkie" system, so your family members can stay in touch.

Third, you should create a disaster supply kit. The kit should include a battery operated NOAA Weather Radio with a tone-alert feature and extra batteries. You should have a three day water supply (1 gallon per person per day). You should have a change of clothes, sleeping bags or blankets for each person, a week's supply of prescription medication, extra glasses or contacts, identification and important documents, a small tool kit, and, of course, a small first aid kit.

You should make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the house. Install A-B-C type fire extinguishers in the home and teach household members how to use them.

If you have a backup generator, you should make sure it is in proper working order by referring to the operator's manual and performing maintenance. Make sure your motor vehicle is fueled, especially since gas stations may be closed during emergencies.

During disaster relief efforts, unless a particular item is requested, do not drop off food, clothing or any other item to a government agency or disaster relief organization.

Always consider your household's health and safety needs. Be aware of stress and fatigue. If needed, seek help from counselors who deal with post-disaster stress.

You should learn your community's warning system and the emergency plans for day care centers, schools, nursing homes, and any other place your household frequently visits.

Due to space limitations, I cannot list all of the things you can or should do to be prepared for an emergency or disaster. I recommend obtaining a copy of Are You Ready? A Guide to Citizen Preparedness from www.fema.gov/library. Additional New York State information can be found at www.nysemo.state.ny.us. Finally, you can go through online independent study courses at www.training.fema.gov. Please be safe and be prepared. Your family, and the Town, will thank you for it.