September is National Preparedness Month. With the increasing severity and frequency of natural disasters, there is nothing more important than preparing yourself, your family, pets, and coworkers for an emergency. Linn County encourages residents and business owners to take the following steps to prepare for an emergency before it happens:
Make a Plan
Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Your plan might include email or social media if landlines and cell phones are not working. If possible, establish an out-of-town contact that each family member can check in with. Include a pre-arranged meeting location in the event the family home is unavailable or not accessible. Have a plan for safe-guarding important documents. Have a programed weather radio at home and at work.
Build a Kit for Your Home
Assemble a home disaster supply kit with enough supplies to last three to five days. Supplies should include food, water, and medication for each member of your family—pets included.
Build a Kit for Your Car
Keep an emergency backpack in your car. Contents should include comfortable walking shoes, a blanket, snacks, water, a flashlight, and a cell phone charger. Update your emergency kit for winter months.
Sign up for Alerts
Sign up for the mass notification system, Alert Iowa. In the event of an emergency or severe weather, an alert will be sent by voice, text and/or email to the phone number and/or email address provided.
Visit Ready.gov for additional emergency preparedness information and tips.