New Year's Resolution, by Frances Smith

I'm late making my New Year's resolutions. I had wanted to do something different, other than the usual "get more exercise, more sleep, and eat less junk food." This week I reviewed a booklet called R U Ready? and realized this was it. My personal stash of emergency supplies at my house and in my car is not ready to go. It's time to finish that project, because as Public Health Administrator, I will have a critical role in emergency response. Have you put it off, too? The R U Ready ? booklet printed by Coos County Emergency Management has suggestions for gathering supplies (over a period of time) that are essential for survival if no help arrives for days. The most critical supply? Water. At least a gallon per person per day. (Think about an earthquake destroying the water and sewage lines. ) The second item I am going to be sure to have is a battery powered radio, so that I can tune into 98.7 FM, the Coos County Emergency Broadcast Station, and find out where to go when my water supply runs out. The RU Ready ? booklet should be found on the County's website, soon. There is an even more comprehensive guide: R U Ready, Southern Oregon Coast Disaster Preparedness, that can be obtained free if you shedule a free disaster group presentation through Kathy Hornstuen, a member of our Friends group. (firetrainer@harborside.com). The Red Cross website also has good information. www.redcross.org