By Micha Wolf | Contributing Writer
Climate change and Pacific Northwest hazards are changing the environment for all of us in the Portland metro region. Over the past few years, we have experienced heat waves, floods and hazardous ice storms during the wintertime.
The Bureau of Emergency Management (PBEM) as well as the Neighborhood Emergency Teams (NETs) are continuously striving to educate and help neighbors navigate any possible disaster. Additionally, during annual City Wide Deployment Exercises (CDE), NETs brush up on their skills to search and rescue.
In order for you and your family to adequately prepare for possible emergencies, it is important to be aware of these potential local hazards:
- Earthquakes
- Landslides
- Wildfires
- Flu, pandemics or fallout from chemical disasters
- Floods
- Volcanic eruption
Discuss with your family where you plan to go should you have to evacuate your home. Take into consideration which routes you might take and plan alternatives in case freeways or local streets are impassable. If possible, involve your neighbors as much as you can so they know where you will be and how to reach you. This may also be achieved with an email list, provided the neighborhood still has power or cell service available. Most importantly, reach out to those neighbors who might need special assistance, such as a visually impaired person or someone in a wheelchair.
Here are the steps to take during an emergency evacuation.
- Listen to a battery powered radio.
- Locate emergency supplies, including extra batteries (radio/hearing aids/ etc.), medications and pet food.
- If time allows, unplug electrical appliances.
To best prepare to execute your plan, practice it on a regular basis. Especially with children involved, practicing will ensure that they are less frightened and know how to calmly evacuate.
Here are tips for preparation so you are ready.
- Download the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) app for a list of shelters and local alerts (available for both Android and iPhone).
- Stock up on necessary medications and medical supplies and also have them available at your possible evacuation site.
- Place emergency phone numbers at a prominent location in your home.
- Identify emergency contacts and their location.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.
- Have an emergency kit handy.
- Teach children how and when to call 911.
- Take a First Aid/CPR class. Emergency Preparedness is the key to a good outcome should disaster strike.
Micha Wolf has retired from teaching primary school, loves being in nature and believes in building community through engagement.