In the aftermath of Hurricane Irene and the continued crazy weather we've had here on the Eastern Seaboard, many homes in Calvert County (as well as others across the state) were left without power. Irene may have passed through the area, but that doesn't mean that we should not be prepared for the possibility of other major storms headed our way. After all, I believe the Boy Scouts have it right: always be prepared. So, here are a few tips on being prepared for a Calvert County storm:
- Emergency Kits - You really should keep two emergency kits handy: one for the car and one for your Calvert County home. In these emergency kits should be at least 3-5 days worth of clothes, food and water for each of your family members, extra prescription medication, glasses (if necessary), handheld radio with fresh batteries, basic first aid kit, waterproof matches, candles and warm blankets. You can pick up MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) at army surplus stores. These are complete meals that have an extensive shelf-life. They can be eaten cold but really taste better after they are warmed up. They are also completely self-contained, which makes them perfect for an emergency kit. Keep all these materials in a container that is easy to grab and go (like a backpack or Rubbermaid storage bin). That way, if you have to get out in a hurry, you don't have to fumble around to find what you need.
- Make an Emergency Plan - Put together an emergency plan with your family and practice it. Designate a specific relative or close family friend located well outside of your area to call in case your family is separated during an emergency. Make sure everyone knows the phone number(s) of this person and how to get in touch with them. When separated, each group should check in with the designated contact person to let them know where they are so they can then let the rest of your family know.
- Don't Forget the Pets - Make sure you have enough food and water for 3-5 days for your pets. If your pet is on special medication, keep some extra in your pet's emergency kit. You don't want to have to add worrying about a sick animal to your list of concerns during an emergency.
- Safekeeping of Important Documents - Whether they're personal, financial or medical, keeping important documents safe is a must. Purchase a waterproof, portable container to keep them in. Keep the container in a place that is easy for you to get to so you can grab it when you have to make a quick getaway. It's also smart to make copies and keep them in a safety deposit box, if possible, as a backup. You can also purchase a USB flash drive from any office supplies store that will store all the info from your computer in a handy, portable unit so you can take your computer information with you wherever you go, even if you can't take the computer itself. Keep copies of all your insurance information as well as a complete inventory of your household items with your important documents. You may need this if you have to deal with your insurance company later.
- Fuel Up - Always keep your car fueled up and go over evacuation plans with your family on a regular basis. The more you practice, the better prepared you will be when an emergency happens.
- Be Alert for Alerts - Pay attention to the emergency alerts given during over the radio and TV. When an evacuation of your Calvert County neighborhood is recommended, don't ignore it. Things can be replaced. People can't. Your safety and the safety of your family is much more important than your "stuff". Also, listen for where to go in case of an emergency.
Being prepared for a Calvert County storm just makes good sense. But, storms aren't the only emergencies to be prepared for. These tips and a bit of practice will help keep you and your family safe in case of an emergency of any kind that happens in Calvert County.
Bonnie Augostino, your Southern Maryland real estate specialist
