Fire Department encourages preparedness

ROSEBURG, OR – During National Preparedness Month in September, the Roseburg Fire Department encourages residents to take time to prepare for potential disasters and other emergencies.

The annual observance, whose 2021 theme is “Prepare to Protect,” began as a way to raise awareness about the importance of readying yourself, loved ones and your community for emergencies.

“I view being prepared as a form of insurance, just like home or car insurance,” said Roseburg Fire Chief Monte Bryan.

Bryan explained the risks we face in Roseburg include:

• wildfire;

• extreme weather;

• medical and health emergencies, such as COVID-19;

• resource shortages;

• earthquakes (Cascadia Subduction Zone).

• floods.

If a natural or man-made disaster strikes, you might have to survive on your own for a few days, which means you’ll need to have your own food, water and other supplies, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s ready.gov website.

To prepare for disasters and other emergencies, individuals, couples and families should have a communication and reunification plan; at least two weeks’ supply of food and water at home for each person in the household; and a portable evacuation kit in case you need to evacuate your home on short notice.

Make a portable emergency supply kit by storing items in airtight plastic bags in easy-carry containers such as duffle bags or plastic bins. An evacuation/survival kit should include at least:

• an evacuation kit for each person in the home;

• food and water for at least three days (one gallon of water per person per day);

• flashlight, first aid kit, tools;

• important documents, plus family and emergency contact information;

• medications;

• toilet paper and personal hygiene items;

• battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA weather radio);

• emergency blanket and/or sleeping bags;

• maps; cell phone and chargers;

• extra cash.

Emergency food rations should include canned food, dry mixes and other foods that don’t need refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Remember to include pets, seniors, infants and individuals with special needs while planning. Sign up for emergency alerts from local authorities.

For more information, visit the ready.gov website. Feel free to contact the Roseburg Fire Department for more information on emergency preparedness, fire safety or other non-emergency business at 541-492-6770 or roseburgfire@cityofroseburg.org.