Are YOU Prepared?

WMI Poll 9-14-159/14/15 – In the White Mountain Independent online edition today there is a poll asking readers “Are you prepared for any natural or manmade disasters or emergencies?”. The attached graph shows the current results as of 11:30 today’s date. It is encouraging that so many do feel they are prepared for an emergency or disaster and that there are still many that want to learn and get started. So for those folks that want to learn more about preparedness here are a few tips and bits of information to get you started. Who knows even those that feel that they are ready might find something new!

First step in being prepared, know the hazards in your area. In the White Mountains we have wildfires, monsoons and winter storms for potential natural disasters. However, we also have potential manmade disasters as well. Hazardous materials are shipped across the country daily in trucks and trains. Do you know what to do if there is a hazardous material that spills in your neighborhood?

Second, have a Ready Kit. A Ready Kit has enough supplies for you, your family and your pets to last a minimum of 72 hours. That includes water! There should be one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Other necessary items include non-perishable food items (check those expiration dates once a year at least), flashlights (with extra batteries – make sure those are checked also), a battery operated radio to get the latest updates, games and puzzles to keep everyone busy and a good first aid kit are just a few items you should have on hand.  Another option instead of battery operated radio is to have is a hand crank emergency radio.  There are several inexpensive ($20-$25 and up) ones on the market that include a variety of options such as additional lights, cell phone charger and more. Many of these can be found at local stores or online. To view a thorough list visit www.ready.gov to download what else you may want to have on hand for an emergency.

Third, have a plan! Talk to your family and make a plan. Know where you will meet if you are separated during a crisis. Make sure you have a contact outside of the immediate area that knows how to get ahold of you. And make sure everyone in the family also has that contact information available. If you are evacuated, follow evacuation instructions and make sure to check in at the shelter even if you are not staying there so that worried family and friends will have a way to see that you are safe and well.

Finally, stay informed! Keep up with the most current and accurate information by checking here at 311info.net, dialing 311 on your phone or by listening to local radio or news stations. If you are a citizen of Navajo County we encourage you to sign up for Ready Navajo County alerts by visiting the Navajo County website (www.navajocountyaz.gov) and click on the green Ready Navajo County logo. If you are a citizen of Apache County stay tune – an alert system is on the way.

 

Smoke in the White Mountain Area

9/10/15 – Several areas on the forest may be producing smoke from small and smoldering fires in and around the Apache-Sitgreaves Forest. Also BIA – Fort Apache Agency is managing a small fire called the Playground Fire that may also be producing smoke. Fire management personnel are monitoring these areas. While several fires may be caused by lightning you can never be too safe. We would like to remind you to please make sure that your campfires are completely out. Remember if it is too hot to touch it is too hot to leave!