BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – As we thaw out from the deep freeze and the last muddy mounds of snow melt away, it’s time to reset for February. We can focus on one simple task that may help ensure we survive and recover from the next big disaster.

February’s task is a great one: create an action plan. It’s pretty simple. In your household, set aside some time to talk through potential hazards – and as well as timing and response.

Consider what you’ll do if the “Go Now!” warning comes when everyone’s at home. To prepare for that possibility, decide:

  • What is my shelter plan?
    • If you need to shelter-in-place, do you have materials to seal windows, can you turn off utilities?
    • Do you have at least one pre-identified alternate location?
  • Where will I evacuate to?
    • Make sure you all know where your designated safe place is
    • It could be a friend’s house, your faith community center, a nearby business
  • What are the evacuation routes?
    • In an earthquake, some bridges or roads could be damaged – do you have more than one route to take you out of the danger zone?
    • Do I have a communication (or reunification) plan?
    • Who will you call (who is out of the area) to let them know where you are?
    • Have you addressed specifics such as if you and your partner work opposite shifts, who’s responsible to pick up any dependents?

Once your Action Plan is developed, the next step is to practice it. Build some mental muscle memory. Plus, walking through the plan will make it clear if any essential steps are missing. For instance, does everyone in your household know how to dial 911 and where emergency contact information is? What about how to turn off utilities (water, gas, electricity)?

Final thoughts: invest in a fire extinguisher (and make sure you know how to use it); ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working; make sure you’ve always got at least half-a-tank of gas in your primary vehicle; and, have a “go bag” ready, complete with spare clothes, non-perishable food, water and essential medications.

Amy Cloud is the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management.  She was born and raised locally, leaving for Whitman College and work in Seattle, Knoxville and Washington, D.C. She returned to work as Supervising News Producer and reporter for KVOS-TV’s NewsView before switching to communications for WWU, PeaceHealth and the City of Bellingham. She also co-chairs the Community PIO Group and is a member of the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues.