Be prepared for anything - including snowstorms

How can you protect your family and home against Mother Nature?

The snowstorm of January 2012 is another example of why everybody, no matter where you live, needs to be prepared for:

• Windstorms and snowstorms
• Power outages
• Floods
• Heat waves
• Other natural disasters

As the Federal Emergency Management Agency says, it’s important for every family to (1) be informed, (2) make a plan, (3) build a kit and (4) work with your neighbors. Learn more at www.ready.gov

Here are some easy tips for storms like this:

• Bump up the thermostat BEFORE the power goes out
• Make sure outside faucets are turned off and insulated
• Leave inside faucets dripping to prevent freezing
• If the power does go out, use flashlights instead of candles, which are a fire hazard
• Don’t drive on snowy and icy roads unless you absolutely have to, because if you get stuck, or injured, ambulances will have just as hard of a time getting to you
• Have a kit ready for the house and your car, with blankets, food, water, a first-aid kit, medicines and other essentials.
• If you have to travel, make sure somebody knows where you’re going and check the Department of Transportation’s website on conditions before you go. www.wsdot.wa.gov

Here in the House of Representatives, we’ve focused a lot of time and attention on preparing for emergencies like this and doing a better job of coordinating local, state and federal efforts to help people. If you’ve got ideas or questions, please contact Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Chair Christopher Hurst at christopher.hurst@leg.wa.gov