File photo: Wisconsin Emergency Management
September is National Emergency Preparedness Month, a time for families to discuss their plans for what to do in the event a severe storm or other major disaster strikes. Tod Pritchard with Wisconsin Emergency Management says families should have a clear plan in place for how to respond to a catastrophe and where to meet, along with getting an emergency kit together.
Pritchard notes that a family response plan should include more than just what to do if a disaster hits while you are all at home. He says that’s not likely going to be the case, so it’s important to go over meeting locations or possibly an out of town relative everyone knows to contact if they are unable to reach family in the area. Plans should also go over how to respond if cell phones stop working or the power is out for an extended period of time.
With the winter months approaching, Pritchard says it’s a good opportunity to check your home’s emergency supply kit. Replace batteries and other supplies that may have been raided during the summer months. Also check expiration dates and replace food that may be close to expiring in the coming months.
You can find more tips on how to prepare for a disaster at the Ready Wisconsin website.