Make a Plan: National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month takes place each September, encouraging individuals to take time to prepare for potential emergencies or disasters that might affect their communities. In our line of work, that means preparing for severe weather events or extended power outages.

Salt River Electric knows there is power in preparation and in having a plan in place. When we send our linemen out to get the lights back on for our members, they go out prepared for the task at hand. So should you. You don’t have to go overboard in your preparedness—just take some easy steps to keep you and your family safe.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency encourages these basic steps:

•Assemble a grab-and-go disaster kit. Include items like nonperishable food, water (one gallon per person per day), diapers, batteries, flashlights, prescription medications, first-aid kit, battery-powered radio and phone chargers.

•Come up with a plan for communicating with family and friends, whether via text, social media, etc.

•Store important documents (deeds, birth certificates) in a safe place outside of the home, like in a bank safe deposit box.

•Organize your supplies so they are all together in an easily accessible location that your family knows.

Since 2021, National Preparedness Month features a specific theme. This year’s theme focuses on how older adults can prepare for potential disasters and emergencies. With that in mind, here are a few ways older adults can prepare for potential outages, no matter the time of year:

•Create a support network of family, friends and others who can assist you during an outage. Make an emergency plan and practice it with them.

•Add important items, such as medicine, medical supplies, batteries and chargers, to your existing emergency supply kit.

•Plan for transportation if you need to leave for another location. If you rely on power for medical devices, think of a place you can go if your home loses electricity.

•Make copies of insurance cards, as well as cards for Medicaid or Medicare.

We also recommend that all Salt River Electric members download our free smartphone app, SR Electric. The quickest way to report outages at any time is by using the app.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Get prepared today!