National Preparedness Month: “Ready Today, Safe Tomorrow”

1. Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days.
2. Non-perishable food and a manual can opener: Have enough easy-to-store food for three days. Examples: canned food, granola bars, dried fruits.
3. Phone charger and external battery: A portable charger keeps your phone working when the power goes out.
4. Important documents: Store copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof, fireproof container. Digital backups are also helpful.
5. First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and prescription medications your family needs.
6. Flashlight and batteries: Keep extra batteries just in case there’s a power outage.
7. Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: Helpful for washing hands and cleaning when water is out.
8. Emergency weather radio: Stay informed with a battery-operated, solar-powered, or hand-crank radio.
9. Seasonal items:  Pack blankets and warm clothing for winter. Get handheld fans for summer.
10. Gas and cash: Fill up your gas tank and take out some cash before a weather event. ATMs and card readers may not work during power outages.

Additional Items You can Keep In Your Kit 

Protecting your home is essential as wildfire risks increase in Central Texas. -

• Create a defensible space: Clear vegetation and debris and make a 3-feet buffer zone.
• Check your yard or patio: Trim trees. Move firewood or other flammable items from the walls. Clean the gutters.
• Check the roof: Use fire-resistant materials. Remove debris. Cover vents with metal screens, but don’t cover dryer vents.

Other Steps You Can Take Now for Wildfire 

Winter storms can cause significant disruptions like power and water outages.

• Insulate pipes: Use pipe insulation foam to prevent your water pipes from freezing.
• Prepare for power outages: Dress in layers and have extra blankets, gloves, hats, and scarves in your emergency kit.
• Fire Safety: Do not use your stove or oven to heat your home. Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors.

Other Ways to be Winter Ready 

If you’re at a crowded event or get lost while hiking, an app called What3Words can help first responders pinpoint your location quickly.

• Used by local first responders: Many Austin-Travis County first responder agencies use this app when responding to 911 calls.
• Precise location: The app assigns three words to your location that you can share with the 911 dispatcher.
• Offline use: You can use the app even when there’s no cell service.

Download the App  

Include your pets in your family emergency plan.

• Microchip and vaccines: Make sure your pet is microchipped and ensure the microchip has your most up-to-date contact information. Keep your pets up to date on their vaccines.
• Emergency kit: Keep some extra pet food, water, your pets’ medication, an extra leash, and a carrier in your emergency kit.
• Shelters: Know where pet-friendly shelters or hotels are just in case you need to evacuate.

Additional Pet Preparedness Tips