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126 maconmagazine.com | August/September 2024 D I S A S T E R S D O N ' T P L A N A H E A D BY SOPHIE ROSEN, MACON-BIBB COUNTY EMA STAFF Disasters can strike anywhere, anytime. While we can't predict the future, we can take steps to ensure our families are prepared for the unexpected. Disaster preparedness involves three key elements: building a well-stocked disaster kit, creating a comprehensive family plan, and staying informed about potential threats. S TAY I N F O R M E D Staying informed about potential threats allows for early preparation and minimizes panic during an emergency. Sign up for Local Alerts: Register for our local notification system, MBCAlert, which will send alerts to your phone in case of an imminent disaster. Sign up at maconbibb.us/mbcalert. Download Emergency Apps: Download MBCAlert, the official Macon-Bibb Safety App to reach instant access to safety resources. Available in the App Store and Google Play Store. Monitor Weather Reports: Stay informed about potential weather events by regularly checking weather forecasts and following reputable news source. R E M E M B E R Preparedness is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your disaster kit, refresh your family plan, and stay vigilant. By taking these steps, you can significantly increase your family's ability to cope with and recover from the unexpected challenges posed by disaster. BUT YOU CAN D i d y o u k n o w ? The voice of safety in Macon-Bibb is Charles Davis, local musician and radio personality on 100.9 The Creek FM. So, when you hear that sonorous and reassuring voice from the MBCAlert notification system, you're hearing the soul of our music city. See Davis perform live every Wednesday at Grant's Lounge as the lead singer of the Macon Music Revue. Comfort items: Include blankets and a change of clothes. W R ITE A FA M I LY D I SAS TE R PL A N A well-defined family disaster plan ensures everyone in your household knows what to do when seconds count. Here's how to create one: Hold a Family Meeting: Discuss potential threats in your area and explain the importance of preparedness. Establish Communication Plans: Decide on a central meeting point outside your home if you get separated and designate out-of-town contacts to check in with during emergencies. Practice Evacuation Drills: Familiarize everyone with escape routes from your home and practice evacuating to a safe location. Include your pets in these drills if possible. Learn Essential Skills: Teach basic first aid and CPR to responsible family members. Practice your emergency plan with all family members at least twice a year. Test your communications plan, assemble at your meeting locations, and do practice drills through your evacuation routes. B U I LD A D I SAS TE R KIT Think of your disaster kit as your household's lifeline in the aftermath of a disaster. It should contain essential supplies that will allow you to remain self-sufficient for at least 72 hours, or three days. Here's what to include: Non-perishable food and water: Pack enough canned goods, energy bars, and bottled water for three days per person. Consider dietary restrictions and include a can opener. Sanitation and hygiene: Pack toilet paper, hand sanitizer, feminine hygiene products, and garbage bags. First-aid kit: Ensure your kit is well-stocked with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications for humans and pets. Flashlight and batteries: Include a hand-crank or solar-powered radio to stay informed during power outages. Cash: ATMs and credit cards may not work after a disaster, so keep a stash of cash on hand. Important documents: Store copies of passports, insurance documents, and other vital records in a waterproof container. Multi-purpose tools: A sturdy knife, duct tape, and work gloves can be incredibly helpful in various situations.