Families need to be prepared in case of emergency

Your family may not be together when disaster strikes.

So before an emergency happens, decide how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in different emergency situations. McHenry County Department of Health supports family preparedness in recognition of September's Emergency Preparedness month. The American Public Health Association has designated Tuesday, Sept. 21, as "Get Ready Day."

No matter the type of disaster, there are three basic things you should do: have an emergency preparedness kit ready; create a family communications and evacuation plan; and be informed - be aware of the risks for disasters that can happen in your community.

Fact sheets and supply lists will help you get started, and you can find them at www.getreadyforflu.org/new pg facts.htm.

Examples of basic items in a supply kit include a three-day supply of nonperishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, flashlight with extra batteries, radio and a first-aid kit. Other items to consider are important family documents such as insurance papers and driver's license, medications, extra clothes, infant formula and diapers, blankets and pet food. It's a good idea to check your emergency preparedness "stockpile" once or twice a year to discard anything that has expired or damaged.

MCDH also recommends families ask about emergency plans in place at school and work. Talk to your neighbors about how you can work together in the event of an emergency. You'll be better prepared if you think ahead and communicate with others in advance. For more information on emergency preparedness, visit www.mcdh.info (Emergency Preparedness) or call (815) 334-4510.