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Disaster Preparedness

Any type of emergency, from earthquakes to floods, landslides to terrorist events requires self-sufficiency and state of readiness. Preparedness officials have been stressing this type of preparation for decades. In general, Lane County Sheriff's Office report that preparations made for Y2K are a good starting point for civil defense readiness at home, including:

72-Hour Disaster Supply Kit

If you need to evacuate your home or are asked to "shelter in place," have some essential supplies on hand to sustain you and your family. Prepare a disaster supplies kit in an easy-to-carry container such as a duffel bag or small plastic trash can. Include "special need" items for any member of your household (infant formula or items for people with disabilities or older people), first aid supplies (including prescription medications), a change of clothing for each household member, a sleeping bag or bedroll for each, a battery powered radio or television and extra batteries, food and water and tools. It is also a good idea to include some cash and copies of important family documents (birth certificates, passports and licenses).

Copies of essential documents

Like powers of attorney, birth and marriage certificates, insurance policies, life insurance beneficiary designations and a copy of your will-should also be kept in a safe location outside your home. A safe deposit box or the home of a friend or family member.

Shelter in place

If you are advised by local officials to "shelter in place," you should remain inside your home or office and protect yourself there. Close and lock all windows and exterior doors. Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems. Close the fireplace damper. Retrieve your disaster supplies kit, and make sure the radio is working. Go to an interior room without windows that's above ground level. In the case of a chemical threat, an above-ground location is preferable because some chemicals are heavier than air, and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed. Using duct tape and precut plastic sheets, seal all cracks around the door and any vents into the room or home. Stay listening to your radio or television until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate. Local officials may call for evacuation from specific areas that are at greatest risk.