Disaster Preparedness Reminder
Butte County – The Butte County Office of Emergency Services and Butte County Fire Department/CAL FIRE want to remind residents that they should have a disaster preparedness kit capable of sustaining their families for at least 72 hours in the event of an emergency.
“As we’ve seen recently, disasters do not have to be apocalyptic to wreak havoc and cause inconvenience,” said Butte County Emergency Services Officer John Gulserian. “Locally, the disasters most likely to occur are storms, flooding, heavy snow, power outages, heat waves and the ever popular wildfire.”
“California has four seasons: fire, flood, earthquake and mudslide,” joked Butte County Fire Chief Henri Brachais. “On a more serious note, along with the privilege of living in this beautiful state comes a responsibility for individual and community disaster preparedness. We are the largest fire department in the state north of Sacramento but even our resources are stretched thin during a wide-scale disaster.”
There are many sources to find information about preparing for a disaster including www.buttefire.org where visitors can download a copy of a disaster preparedness checklist (included on page 2). One of the most comprehensive sources of disaster preparedness information is the American Red Cross. Their website is www.redcross.org/services/disaster.
How to make a Disaster Plan for your family
q Baby food and supplies if needed.
q Blankets or sleeping bags
q Can opener (non-electric)
q Candles and matches
q Cash (ATM’s may not be working)
q Copies of vital records. Make sure originals are stored safely.
q Essential medications
q Extra pair of eyeglasses if worn
q Extra pair of house and care keys
q Fire extinguisher, A-B-C type
q First aid kit
q Food
q Food , water and leash for pets
q Garden hose
q Knife/razor blades
q Paper towels, plates, and cups
q Paper/pens/stamps
q Personal hygiene supplies
q Portable radio, flashlight and spare batteries
q Portable stove (CAUTION: before using fire to cook, make sure there are no gas leaks. NEVER use charcoal indoors!)
q Sanitation supplies
q Sturdy shoes, gloves and change of clothing
q Tent
q Water purification kit
q Water, at least 1 gallon per person per day. A week’s supply is recommended.