Submitted by Gail Johnson, Public Health, Nurse Westford Health Dept
September is National Preparedness Month, an annual campaign sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to encourage individuals, families, and communities to be prepared for emergencies and disasters. While we may not know when an emergency may happen, taking a little time to prepare can make a big difference when something unexpected occurs.
When we hear about hurricanes, floods, severe storms, wildfires, extreme heat, and other disasters happening across the country and around the world, it reminds us that emergencies can happen anywhere. Being prepared isn’t about expecting the worst, it’s about knowing what to do and having the supplies and information you may need if an emergency occurs.
Start by thinking about yourself, your family, and your pets. Consider what you would need if you lost power, if you had to leave your home quickly, or were unable to access medications, food, or other necessities for several days.
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) offers resources to help create an emergency plan that walks families through choosing meeting locations, shelter in place, evacuating safely, receiving emergency alerts, and practicing the plan so everyone knows what to do.
How to Build a 72-Hour Kit
Preparing for an emergency means having enough supplies to get you and your family through at least the first 72 hours. After a disaster, roads may be blocked, power may be out, or emergency responders may not be able to reach everyone right away. Taking some time to prepare can make a big difference.
An emergency kit does not have to be complicated. Start with the basics, such as:
- Water and non-perishable food plus a can opener
- Flashlights and extra batteries; candles
- Medications
- First-aid kit
- Important documents and identification
- A phone charger or back up battery
- Personal hygiene items
- Supplies for infants, older adults, or anyone with special needs.
- And don’t forget the pets! Include food, water, medications, carrier crate, and any other needed supplies. If you need to evacuate, make sure you have a plan for your pets as well.
There are many resources available to help you build an emergency kit, including Ready.gov, FEMA and MEMA.
Stay informed in Westford
One of the simplest ways to prepare is to make sure you can receive emergency information from the Town of Westford. The Town uses RAVE/SMART911 to send time-sensitive emergency notifications to residents by phone call, text messages, and email.
If you are new to Westford, have recently changed your phone number, or have an unlisted number, make sure your contact information is up to date and that you are signed up to receive these notifications.
The Town also provides emergency information through Westford’s local AM radio station, 1630 AM.
As part of emergency preparedness, the Westford Health Department maintains a Special Needs Emergency Registry for residents of all ages who may need additional assistance during an emergency. This may include chronic health conditions, mobility or sensory limitations, cognitive or developmental needs, or other special healthcare needs. Participation is voluntary, and registering does not guarantee that assistance will be available during an emergency. By completing the registry, residents authorize the Town to share the information with local and state emergency responders so they can better prepare to assist when possible. You can find the registry on the Westford Health Department website, or a copy can be picked up at the Town Hall Health Dept.
File of Life cards are mini-medical history cards that are kept in a bright red magnetic pouch on the refrigerator. In an emergency, it gives EMT’s and Paramedics a peek into your medical history to assist with critical information regarding your health status, current list of medications, allergies, and emergency contacts, especially if you are unable to speak, confused, or unconscious. Feel free to stop by the Westford Health Department to pick up a file of life card.
*NOTE: The information above was taken from various sources, to explain emergency preparedness. This information is meant to be truthful, accurate, & educational and not meant to misrepresent any article previously written and submitted by any organization. Informational ONLY. NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. Seek medical advice from your physician.
