Announced last month, “Ready Roanoke Valley” is a coalition of public service agencies from local governments in the valley, spreading the word to residents about being more prepared for floods, tornados, power outtages, ice storms and other situations that might put their families in some peril.
Among the first concrete suggestions rolled out: having an emergency kit in your home, one that might contain flashlights, food, water, personal hygiene items, over the counter medicines, a compass, whistle, small tools etc.
Roanoke City Emergency Services Coordinator Marci Stone showed off the contents of such a kit recently, one she claimed could be assembled for under fifty dollars by shopping at Dollar stores and other discount shops.
Roanoke City, Roanoke County, Salem, Botetourt and Craig Counties are all part of the Ready Roanoke Valley initiative. “[We want] to make sure our community is better prepared,” said Stone.
Suggested contents for the emergency kits can be found at ReadyVirginia.gov and via a link on on the Ready Roanoke Valley Facebook page. Stone said the kit needs to be tailored to “personal needs,” so those with small children in the house versus those caring for an elderly parent will have different items to stock.
Keep those kits in a safe place that is easily accessible; Stone suggests another version for the car. She wants people to think beyond a first aid situation to a full-blown emergency or disaster “that potentially could affect the community. Be safe, resilient and prepare to handle those emergency for about 72 hours. What is the worst thing that could happen in our community? You need to be prepared for that.”
Put everything in a suitcase or a backpack, and make sure everyone in the household knows where that kit is. Have supplies for your pets as well – enough for the 72 hour timeline advised.
“Hopefully you’ll never have to use your kit,” says Stone. But it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. “Take this seriously.”
Gene Marrano
