Many in the Pacific Northwest are familiar with emergency preparedness because of The Big One - an earthquake experts expect will occur sometime in the next 50 years. But emergency preparedness goes beyond just a large-scale disaster; being ready can also be helpful when there are wildfires, ice storms, power outages, and other catastrophic events.
Since 2004, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, has observed National Preparedness Month each September. Their message this year focuses on the theme, "Preparedness starts at home," highlighting the small steps you can take today that can have a big impact in the future. For the Portland metro area, it's especially important to take action now.
Mental health is an important part of disaster preparedness and recovery. Many feel anxious or stressed at the idea of natural disasters, and taking steps to prepare can help ease those concerns. During or after an event, people can experience distress, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. You don’t need to be a behavioral health provider to learn the basics of how to prepare today and ways to support others after a disaster.
If you are new to emergency preparedness, below are a few ways to jump in without spending a lot of time or money. If you're interested in learning more, visit our resources at the end for more guidance.
Talk with your neighbors
The number one predictor of an effective disaster response is neighborhood readiness. In a disaster, a medical team may not be able to arrive quickly, and the first source of help could be someone who lives next door or across the street. You can follow a Map Your Neighborhood plan to get to know:
- Who in your area may need extra support, such as children or people with disabilities
- Who has extra resources such (water, food, first aid supplies, etc.)
- Who in your neighborhood has special training, such as doctors, nurses, and emergency responders
- Where to find the gas and water shutoffs for nearby houses and buildings
- Who may have access to radio communications, generators, or other equipment that may be useful
Knowing who lives near you and what their skills and needs are may ultimately be lifesaving.
Build a kit
Having enough food, water, and supplies on hand can help you feel safe after a disaster. The recommendation is a minimum of one gallon of water per person, per day, for at least three days. If possible, experts recommend having at least two weeks of water available at home. The Center for Disease Control has helpful information about how to stock and supply water.
Food supplies should include items that do not need to be refrigerated, with a long shelf life. Ideally, these would not require cooking, as they may take other resources, such as water or gas/electricity, to prepare.
Other items to consider are flashlights, batteries, radios, ponchos, whistles, and first aid kits. You can stock up on longer-term supplies at home and create smaller versions as go-bags and kits for your car. Below are a few checklists that can help you know what to gather and how to break down your supplies.
- Emergency supply list, FEMA
- Build a family disaster kit in 24 weeks, Portland Bureau of Emergency Management, PBEM
- Gather supplies, customize your kit, Multnomah County
- Survival kit supplies, American Red Cross
Consider sanitation
One of the biggest concerns in the days after a disaster is how to safely use the restroom if plumbing does not work. There are a few simple systems you can use, most at little or no cost. Learn more about these options by visiting Have a Toilet Plan or the Emergency Toilet Guidebook.
Create a family plan
Talking with your loved ones about how to prepare is a first step. If you have children, make sure they know their address and a parent or guardian’s phone number in case of separation. Create a Family Plan that details important numbers, medical information, what pets live in the home, and more. Many recommend having a designated, out-of-area contact that everyone knows to connect with in case systems are down locally.
Take it one step at a time
If the thought of preparing for an emergency feels overwhelming, you are not alone. Several local agencies have created approaches that break down tasks into smaller steps. These include:
- Be 2 weeks ready – An 8-part plan from oregon.gov
- Take 5 to survive – Washington County breaks down tasks into 5-minute projects
- Preparedness Calendar – Take 12 months to prepare by taking on one step each month
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Disaster planning checklist, PBEM
How to prepare for emergencies, American Red Cross
Portland Neighborhood Emergency Teams (NETs), PBEM
Psychological First Aid, National Center for PTSD
Preparedness, Washington County Emergency Management
Office of Emergency Management, Multnomah County
Disaster management, Clackamas County
