Be Prepared if Disaster Hits

The Evanston Health Department wants to remind residents that September is National Preparedness Month, and now is a good time to make sure you are prepared in case of an emergency or natural disaster. 

Evanston Health Department Director Evonda Thomas says there are a few simple steps you can take, including creating a disaster supply kit made up of water, three days worth of food, a NOAA weather radio with extra batteries and other supplies recommended by www.ready.gov. 

Forming a family disaster plan is also suggested, and can be done by choosing a specific location to meet your family, dependent on what type of emergency were to happen. By filling out a Family Emergency Plan from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, you can begin your plan. 

Inquiring about the disaster plans of locations where your family, especially the young and the elderly, spends time such as schools or senior citizen center, are another step in being prepared, according to www.ready.gov. Residents are also reminded to remember family pets as well. 

Getting training on CPR and first aid are additional steps you can take to ensure you and your family are safe during an unforseen emergency situation. Classes are offered through the Evanston Fire Department. 

Other suggestions and ideas on how to keep you and your family safe are available at http://ready.illinois.gov/.

You can also contact Josiane Horak, Evanston Health Department Emergency Response Coordinator at jhorak@cityofevanston.org

Information obtained on the City of Evanston website, Ready.gov and from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.