The Red Cross encourages families to have an emergency kit prepared in case they need to leave their homes quickly during a disaster such as a wildfire.
During National Preparedness Month in September and throughout the year, the Red Cross of Idaho, Montana and East Oregon recommends that families create an emergency plan so they will know what to do if a disaster occurs.
One way we help families prepare is through our Red Cross Ready virtual preparedness program. Taught by a certified presenter over the phone or online, these free presentations cover simple steps you can take now to help prepare and protect your loved ones from future emergencies.
Participants will learn how to prepare for the types of emergencies that are most likely to happen in their area like wildfires and flooding; identify responsibilities for each member of the household and discuss how they will work together as a team; and cover how to practice as many elements of that plan as possible.
We will also cover three simple steps you can take now to be ready if disaster strikes:
1. GET A KIT. If you’ve ever fumbled to find a flashlight during a blackout, you know what it feels like to be unprepared. Get your emergency preparedness kit ready now. Here are some items you should include:
Three-day supply of nonperishable food and water—one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes
2. MAKE A PLAN. Talk with your household about what you would do during emergencies and plan what to do in case you are separated. You should choose two places to meet -- one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home or are asked to evacuate.
And don’t forget your pets. Keep a phone list of “pet friendly” motels/hotels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes.
3. BE INFORMED. Find out how you would receive information from local officials in the event of an emergency, whether through local radio, TV or NOAA weather radio stations. Also, know the difference between different weather alerts such as “watches” and “warnings” and what actions to take in each and learn about the free Red Cross Emergency App.
If you would like to request a Red Cross Ready, please visit: https://americanredcross.wufoo.com/forms/zjhgweo08ewmd3/.
Last year, the Red Cross of Idaho, Montana and East Oregon helped more than 1,500 people following a disaster. The Red Cross helps families meet their most immediate needs by providing food, shelter, financial assistance and disaster mental health care and also connects them with other community resources. Red Cross services are free and available to all.
