September is National
Preparedness Month:
“Ready Today, Safe Tomorrow”
Submitted by: Yoojin Cho Emergency Services PIO Sr. Travis County
September is National Preparedness Month (NPM), and this year, the Travis County Emergency Services Department is encouraging you to be “Ready today, safe tomorrow!”
NPM is the perfect time to prepare for emergencies like natural disasters and other unexpected catastrophic events.
Travis County experiences extreme weather events like floods, heat waves, and ice storms every year. Having a well-prepared emergency kit can be a lifeline, ensuring your safety and well-being.
In honor of NPM 2024, we’re sharing 10 essential items to include in your emergency kit.
1. WATER: Have at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days.
2. NON-PERISHABLE FOOD AND A MANUAL CAN OPENER: Keep in your kit at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food, like canned goods, granola bars, or dried fruits. Don’t forget a manual can opener!
3. PHONE CHARGER AND EXTERNAL PHONE BATTERY: A portable cell phone battery will keep your phone working when the power goes out, helping you stay connected with family, friends, and emergency services.
4. IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS: Keep copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof, fireproof container. If possible, have digital copies of these documents.
5. FIRST AID KIT: A well-stocked first aid kit can address minor injuries until professional help can get to you. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications your family might need.
6. FLASHLIGHT AND BATTERIES: Pack extra batteries just in case there’s an extended power outage.
7. HAND SANITIZER AND WET WIPES: Maintaining hygiene during an emergency can prevent illness. Pack hand sanitizer and wet wipes for quick cleaning when water isn’t available.
8. EMERGENCY WEATHER RADIO: When cell service or power is out, a weather radio can provide life-saving information from emergency broadcasts. Many come with hand cranks or solar panels, so you can use it for a while even without a power
source.
9. SEASONAL ITEMS: Adjust your kit for the season. In winter, pack blankets and warm clothing; in summer, include a portable handheld fan.
10. DON’T FORGET ABOUT GAS AND CASH: Fill up your gas tank and withdraw some cash before storms hit. ATMs and card readers may not work during power outages.
Additional resources:
https://oem.traviscountytx.gov/pages/travis-county-office-of-emergency-management-community-preparedness
https://www.ready.gov/kit
https://warncentraltexas.org/
https://www.traviscountytx.gov/fire-marshal/wildland-fire
https://www.traviscountytx.gov/fire-marshal/burn-ban
https://www.facebook.com/TravisCoEmergencyServices
https://x.com/TravisCountyES
https://www.instagram.com/traviscounty_emergencyservices/