Living in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) is a privilege, with its stunning natural beauty, temperate climate, and close-knit communities. However, this region is no stranger to extreme weather events and natural disasters. The recent bomb cyclone—a storm system so intense it rivaled a hurricane—reminded many of us how critical it is to be prepared for emergencies. Whether it’s windstorms, earthquakes, wildfires, or prolonged power outages, having a solid emergency preparedness plan is essential. In this blog post, we’ll go over a few steps to safeguard your family and community.
Making a Home Evacuation Plan
When disaster strikes, having a well-thought-out home evacuation plan can save lives. If you dont have a plan, expect chaos.
Here’s how you can create your own evacuation plan:
Map Your Exits: Identify two exits from every room. Ensure windows are accessible and unobstructed. Have throw down ladders in every room of a two story home.
Establish a Meeting Point: Choose a safe spot outside your home where your family will gather after evacuating. Also, select a secondary meeting point outside your neighborhood.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Conduct evacuation drills twice a year to ensure everyone knows what to do. For families with kids, make it a fun game to help ease their anxiety.
Pack a "Go Bag": Keep a backpack near the door with essentials like copies of IDs, medications, snacks, cash, and a flashlight. Update it seasonally.
If you have elderly family members with mobility issues make sure to have a plan for how they will get out safely as well.
Plan for Pets: Include your pets in the plan. Keep carriers, leashes, and a small supply of pet food ready to go.
Resources to Know During Emergencies
Knowing where to turn for help during a crisis can make all the difference. The community you live in most likely has a wide range of resources during emergencies, it's up to you to be informed and figure out where and how to access those resources:
Emergency Alerts: Sign up for regional alert systems like CodeRED or AlertSense for real-time updates.
FEMA Mobile App: Provides shelter locations, disaster recovery information, and alerts.
211 Hotline: Provides information on shelters, food resources, and disaster recovery assistance.
Community Networks: Join local preparedness groups or forums on platforms like Nextdoor. These can be invaluable during an emergency.
Utility Hotlines: Save contact numbers for reporting downed power lines, gas leaks, or water issues.
NOAA Weather Radio: A reliable way to stay informed when other communication channels fail.
Developing a Communication Plan
In emergencies, staying connected with loved ones is crucial. With all the chaos going on during emergencies a communication plan can help you stay connected and will reduce the anxiety of not knowing whether loved ones are okay or not. Here’s how to create a reliable communication plan:
Emergency Contact List: Include family, neighbors, and an out-of-area contact who can act as a relay for updates.
Text Over Call: Texting is often more reliable than calling when cell networks are overwhelmed and they will be during emergencies ( if the cell towers havent been affected that is.)
Establish Family Code Words: Use a code word to confirm identities if someone is under duress.
Communication Drills: Test your plan during family drills to ensure it works under real-world conditions.
Backup Power: Invest in portable chargers or solar-powered options to keep devices functional. A generator is highly recommended ( it's totally worth it )
Helping Your Neighbors
Emergencies are a test of community strength. Even if you dont like your neighbors, supporting your neighbors can enhance everyone’s safety and resilience:
Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Ensure elderly, disabled, or isolated neighbors have what they need during an emergency.
Share Resources: Offer spare supplies like food, water, or batteries.
Coordinate a Neighborhood Plan: Join or create a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
Host Preparedness Events: Organize workshops to help your neighborhood prepare together.
Stay Connected: Exchange contact information and set up a neighborhood communication network.
What to Do in Case of Earthquakes and Fires
Earthquakes
The Cascadia Subduction Zone is a real threat in the PNW. I know this isnt on our mind a lot because we rarely have earthquakes, but considering where we live and that we do get quakes here and there, it's always better to be prepared . Here’s how you can prepare in case of an earthquake:
Drop, Cover, and Hold On: During an earthquake, drop to your hands and knees, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
Stay Indoors: Avoid running outside, as debris from buildings can cause injuries.
Secure Your Home: Bolt heavy furniture to walls and secure water heaters. Store breakables on low shelves.
Utility Shutoff Knowledge: Learn how to turn off gas, electricity, and water to prevent post-earthquake hazards.
Fires
Wildfires are an increasing risk in the PNW, especially during dry seasons. It's no longer a will there be wild fires, its more of when will there be wild fires. Hopefully you never have to deal with a wildfire near your home but in case you do here are a few tips:
Evacuation Readiness: Familiarize yourself with evacuation levels (Ready, Set, Go). Keep your car’s gas tank at least half full.
Defensible Space: Clear vegetation at least 30 feet around your home to reduce fire risk.
Smoke Protection: Stock N95 masks and consider investing in an air purifier for your home.
Building a Two-Week Emergency Kit
Prolonged disasters can isolate families for days or weeks. The recent bomb cyclone in Washington State kept some residents without power for about a week. People were understandably freaking out. If people would have been a little more prepared, it may have been a little easier. A comprehensive emergency kit can be your lifeline. Here are some things to consider when building your kit:
Water and Food
Water Storage: Store at least one gallon per person per day. A family of four needs 56 gallons for two weeks.
Non-Perishable Foods: Include canned goods, granola bars, and freeze-dried meals. Don’t forget a manual can opener.
Power and Light
Light Sources: Pack flashlights, LED lanterns, and extra batteries.
Backup Power: Solar chargers and power banks are essential for extended outages.
Health and Safety
First Aid: Stock a complete first aid kit and include prescription medications.
Sanitation Supplies: Biodegradable waste bags, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes are must-haves.
Comfort and Warmth
Warmth: Include blankets, sleeping bags, and hand warmers.
Clothing: Pack durable, weather-appropriate clothes and sturdy shoes for each family member.
Other Essentials
Tools: Multi-tool, duct tape, and waterproof matches.
Pet Supplies: Food, water, and carriers for pets.
Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and birth certificates stored in a waterproof container.
Cash: Small bills for use if ATMs and card systems are down.
Additional Tips for Staying Prepared
Stay Updated: Regularly check local forecasts and emergency alerts to stay ahead of potential disasters.
Update Your Kit: Revisit your emergency supplies every six months to replace expired items and adjust for seasonal needs.
Prepare Your Vehicle: Keep a car emergency kit with flares, tools, and extra supplies in case you’re stranded.
Final Thoughts: Building Resilience in the PNW
Emergency preparedness isn’t just a personal responsibility—it’s a community effort. By taking proactive steps to prepare yourself, creating a communication network, and helping those around you, you can ensure greater safety and resilience in times of crisis.
We all love the PNW for its beauty and adventure, but we must also respect its risks. Start preparing today, and share these tips with your family, friends, and neighbors to make sure everyone is ready for the next big event.
Have additional tips or stories about emergency preparedness? Share them in the comments below! Together, we can create a safer, stronger PNW community.
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