May 3, 2023 Issue, Page 7 of 10

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May 3, 2023 The Elk City News - 7 ee Items to include ina disaster supplies kit Previous natural disasters have shown everyone how unpre- - Sleeping essentials: Pack a blanket or sleeping bag for each dictable the fallout from storms and other weather events can member of the family, be. For example, drone footage of areas ravaged by hurricanes : First aid kid and prescription medications: If necessary, or tornados often shows a few seemingly untouched homes in individuals can speak with their physicians in advance of their a sea of properties that were leveled or damaged beyond repair. region's storm season to request their prescriptions are updat- Such footage shows how much damage natural disasters can do and underscores the importance of preparation to surviving ed so they can more easily get their medicine should they run potentially deadly storms. In recognition of that importance, out while they are away from home. the American Red Cross advises everyone to prepare a disaster - Eyeglasses: Pack an extra pair of eyeglasses should an ex- supplies kit that they can utilize should they need to evacuate isting pair be lost or broken while away from home. their homes. The Red Cross recommends including the follow- - Battery-powered electronics: Pack a battery-powered radio ing items in the kit and storing them in an easy-to-carry con- and flashlight and plenty of extra batteries as well. tainer, such as a backpack or duffel bag. - Extra set of car keys + Water: Include one gallon of water per person per day and + Medical lists: Include a list of family physicians for each in- store it in sealed, unbreakable containers. Date each container and replace it every six months. dividual in the supply kit. In addition, document the style and : Food: Maintain a supply of nonperishable packaged or serial number of medical devices such as pacemakers. canned food. Store a non-electric can opener with the food. Disaster supplies kits can help individuals and their fami- + Clothing: Include a change of clothing as well as rain gear lies safely navigate the initial aftermath of potentially deadly and sturdy shoes. storms. In case of How pet owners can prepare emergency, find for disasters in advance the safest room The National Weather Service says that in the event of a The need to prepare for can accommodate pets during A full list of recommended Rescue alert stickers alert first tornado, being underground is best, so seek shelter in a storm natural disasters is never more responders to the presence of storms or other emergencies. emergency supplies can be cellar or basement. However, if no subterranean shelter is apparent than right after an pets in a home. The ASPCA Knowing which ones do can found at aspca.org. available, seek out shelter as far inside the structure as possi- especially harsh storm touches recommends placing the stick- ensure pets have a safe place + Make sure pets wear ble, ideally ina small space. Again, bathrooms, closets, under down. But disaster prepara- er on the front door or window to go should disaster strike. collars and tags at all times. stairs, or in a hallway may be the best bets. tion should be a proactive en- (visit aspca.org to receive a free + Stock up on emergency Disaster can strike at any deavor, as taking action before sticker). Include the types and supplies. The ASPCA recom- time, so it’s vital that pets a storm can make confronting numbers of pets in the home mends pet owners plan as if wear their identification tags the storm that much easier. as well as the name and phone they won't be allowed to re- and collars at all times. The “No Joh Too Big Pet owners must give extra number of your veterinarian. thought to disaster prepared- turn home for several weeks, ASPCA urges pet owners to - Learn about local safe ha- even if they suspect their include pets’ names and any Or Too Small” ness to ensure their pets can vens. If pet owners must evac- time away will be much short- urgent medical needs on the make it through harsh storms uate in the case of a coming er. Speak with your vet about tags. A telephone number unscathed. Natural disasters storm, their pets must evacu- what to include in a pet first- like storms and fires can put ate as well. Some animal shel- aid kit, and be sure to bring where owners can be reached pets in jeopardy, so it’s vital ters provide emergency shelter at least several days’ worth of at all hours of the day should that pet owners take the steps for pets and/or can arrange canned (pop-top) or dry food. be included on tags as well. + Take location into ac- necessary to protect their fur- for pets to be fostered until Disposable litter trays, liquid ry friends before such disas- dish soap and disinfectant and count. The ASPCA advises pet their owners can safely return ters strike. home. It’s vital to conduct this an extra collar or harness and owners who live in regions GIVEUS - Place a rescue alert sticker research in advance, as the AS- extra leash are some addition- prone to certain disasters to on your front door or window. PCA notes that not all shelters al emergency supplies to pack. find rooms in their homes which can serve as safe ha- vens during storms. 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