Preparedness is defined by DHS/FEMA as "a continuous cycle of planning, organizing, training, equipping, exercising, evaluating, and taking corrective action in an effort to ensure effective coordination during incident response."
The environmental services department collaborates with other tribal government divisions on preparing for emergencies in our community. Some of these activities include: responding to environmental , water, and waste water emergencies, acquiring emergency response equipment and supplies; training staff and community members in disaster response; identifying and equipping emergency shelter space; coordinating and hosting drills and exercises; and creating emergency response plans to protect tribal community members, tribal property and natural resources.
What can you do?
Are you prepared to make it on your own for a few days in the event of an emergency? Simple preparations today can keep you safe during a disaster or emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days.
- Make a family emergency communication plan and include your pets.
- Identify an out of town emergency contact to coordinate information with family/friends.
- Check on neighbors.
- Keep an emergency kit wherever you spend time: home, car, work etc.
- Download the FEMA App and set up local alerts.
- Listen to local officials by radio, TV, or social media and take action.
- Practice your preparedness plans with a drill or exercise.
- Take a first aid class so you can help until first responders arrive.
- Build a 72 hour survival kit, visit this www.ready.gov/kit to see a list of suggested items to include.
For more tips and information on preparedness you can visit www.ready.gov.