September 27, 2011

From severe thunderstorms to flooding and winter blizzards, Central New York is frequently affected by severe weather conditions.

"These types of incidents serve to personally remind us to take steps to prepare for emergencies," said Patricia Egan, Director of the Oswego County Emergency Management Office.

Egan said Oswego County is joining with Onondaga and Madison counties in a Citizens Preparedness Campaign to encourage people to be prepared for any type of emergency. The campaign kicks off with a website for information about preparing for emergencies at www.oswegocounty.com/ready/index.html..

"An emergency can happen anytime and anywhere. We all have a role in doing our part to ensure our safety and well-being," said Egan. "Being prepared can save precious time and reduces our risk of harm. "

Oswego County residents can take a few simple steps to be sure they are prepared in the event of an emergency. These steps include:

Prepare a Kit: Keep a three-day supply of water (one gallon of water for each person per day), non-perishable, ready-to-eat canned or packaged foods, pet food, a manual can opener, a battery-operated AM/FM radio and batteries, a flashlight with batteries, first aid kit, prescription medication, over the counter medication, and eyeglasses. It is also a good idea to have a whistle to signal for help, personal hygiene items, feminine hygiene products, toothbrushes, and toothpaste, moist towelettes and garbage bags, a cell phone and chargers (including a car charger), child care supplies, and other special care items.

Make a Plan: Discuss and agree on an emergency plan with your family. It is important to discuss what to do, where to meet and how to communicate for potential emergencies that are more likely to occur in Oswego County and have a family plan in place. Visit www.oswegocounty.com/ready/index.html for downloadable plans to use for preparing your plan.

Stay Informed: When an emergency occurs, stay tuned to the local media for updates and recommendations.

For more information about how to prepare for an emergency, people can visit www.oswegocounty.com/ready/index.html or call the Oswego County Emergency Management Office at 315/591-9150.