Emergency Preparedness and Lewis County Alert

One of the best things that can be done before a disaster occurs is to learn what to expect and how to be ready for it. When providing station tours or classes, often times members of the Chehalis Fire Department will discuss what citizens can do to prevent or be prepared for emergencies.

Disaster can strike without warning, forcing you to go for days without basic necessities or to evacuate your home. Relief workers will be on the scene following a disaster, but may not be able to reach you immediately. A major threat in Lewis County in the past has been major flooding. You need to be prepared. Knowing the steps to take during a disaster can greatly reduce the danger and distress your family may face.

Begin with a Basic Emergency Plan. This plan will include instructions and guidelines for what you and your family might do in each potential emergency situation, where escape routes in your home might be, a place away from your neighborhood where family members can meet you in the event you're separated, and having emergency numbers by every phone and teaching children how and when to dial 911.

It is also a great idea to prepare a Disaster Supply Kit. Having this kit ready to take with you at a moments notice or have with you in the event you must take shelter in your home. Some key components include: Water, Food, Tools and Equipment, and Personal Items.

Knowing as soon as possible can be a crucial element to being prepared in the event of a pending emergency or disaster. Luckily, there is a new tool out now provided by the Lewis County Board of County Commissioners called the Lewis County Alert.

Check out the following link for some great information on what to pack in your Disaster Supply Kit, additional steps you can add to your Basic Emergency Plan, and numerous other great tools to assist in disaster preparedness.

Emergency Preparedness (lewiscountywa.gov)