CHICKASHA, Okla. - It is the kind of task that often falls to the bottom of the priority list, but preparing ahead of a possible emergency or disaster reduces the risk of harm to you and your family.

 

As part of its Resolve to be Ready campaign, the Federal Emergency Management Agency places a special emphasis annually on being ready year-round for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

 

Start by knowing when hazards are likely to occur, which will give you a good idea of what types of weather hazards to expect at different times of the year.

 

Then commit to putting together a basic emergency kit, which should include supplies such as three days’ worth of water and nonperishable food, a first aid kit, flashlight and extra batteries, a battery-operated radio and a change of clothes appropriate for the current season.

 

Be sure to include prescription medicines, hearing aids, baby formula and other unique needs of family members. Also, do not forget to set aside items for any family pets.

 

Most people understand the value of putting together a disaster kit, but sometimes cost seems like a barrier. It does not have to be. Building a kit on a budget is doable.

Begin by scouring your house for the items you need. Then check with family and friends to see if you can broker trades for supplies both of you need to complete your kits. Fill in any remaining gaps with things you pick up on sale or at garage sales.

 

Finally, take the time to create a family communications plan.  You can’t assume your family will be together when an emergency occurs. That’s why having a plan and making sure everyone knows exactly what to do and where to go if something does happen is so critically important. You also should make a point of asking about the emergency plans at school and work.

 

A free step-by-step guide is available at www.ready.gov along with other important resources such as a seasonal preparedness calendar and full list of recommended supplies for a disaster kit.

 

For more information about emergency preparedness, contact Grady County OSU Cooperative Extension Service at (405) 224-2216.  We are located at 828 W. Choctaw in Chickasha.

 

Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Higher Education Act), the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, genetic information, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, or status as a veteran, in any of its policies, practices or procedures.  This provision includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The Director of Equal Opportunity, 408 Whitehurst, OSU, Stillwater, OK 74078-1035; phone (405) 744-5371; email: eeo@okstate.edu has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity. Any person (student, faculty, or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based on gender may discuss his or her concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with OSU’s Title IX Coordinator (405) 744-9154.