Be Prepared

Make arrangements with a key family, friend, or relative, for checking in with (or for checking in on you) to make sure someone knows your whereabouts and if you are okay.

1. Prepare a 72 Hour Emergency Kit

   • 3-day supply of nonperishable food (preferably foods that do not need cooking)
   • 3-day supply of water (one gallon per day, per person)
   • Medications (3 plus days' supply)
   • Medical insurance card and information
   • A photocopy of medication script in case you need to purchase more medication
   • Battery-powered radio
   • Flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs
   • First aid kit and manual
   • Sanitation and hygiene items
   • Matches in a water proof container
   • Cell phone with extra battery and charger
   • Whistle (to attract attention of emergency personnel)1 change of clothing
   • Blanket
   • Manual can opener
   • Photocopies of personal documents and identification
   • Cash and coins (ATMs may not be accessible)
   • Pet supplies if you have a pet with you
   • Plastic garbage bags
   • Family and friends' emergency contact information
   • Pack of cards (or reading material) to provide entertainment and pass the time
   • Keep assistive devices such a wheel chair, walker, hearing aids, and more in a convenient location during the night, or when they are not in use, so you can access them quickly and easily in the event of evacuation.

2. Make a Plan

   • Make arrangements with a key family, friend, or relative, for checking in with (or for checking in on you) to make sure someone knows your whereabouts and if you are okay.
   • Make arrangements for where you will go and how you will get there in the event of evacuation.Make arrangements for where you will take your pet. If you go to a shelter, your pet (except service animals) will not be able to come.
   • Have an escape route planned of the quickest and best way out of your home, with a second escape route as backup.
   • If you will require special assistance during an emergency situation, the Cortland County Office of Emergency Management in conjunction with local human services agencies has created a Special Needs Registry of those in need. To register, the form can be obtained from the Cortland County Area Agency on Aging.
3. Be Informed
   
   • Pay attention to news broadcasts, warnings, and storm watches.
   • Be aware of what types of disasters your community could have (tornadoes, ice storms, flooding, power outage, chemical spills, and more) and know how and what to do in the event of each.