Get Healthy Carson City: Disasters can happen here, prepare

This weekly column addresses topics related to the health of our community.

In light of recent international disasters, we are reminded that we could suffer an emergency right here in Carson City. While we are not in danger of a tsunami like the one in Japan recently, there are a host of other hazards that we could face.

Flooding, fire, earthquakes, and extreme weather are all scenarios that could occur in our area, and it is important for residents to be prepared. Being prepared during an emergency can mean the difference between being uncomfortable for a few days and being in real danger. The time to prepare for a disaster is BEFORE it happens.

Get a Kit

Have supplies in an emergency kit to be self-sufficient for several days. There is a possibility that emergency services personnel will not be able to reach you right away. Some items that should be in your emergency kit include first-aid items and any required medications; blankets, sleeping bags, tents, or tarps should be available for shelter; and extra clothes and personal hygiene items are a necessity.

It is important to include enough non-perishable food and water to last your family and pets for at least three days. Make sure your kit includes flashlights and extra batteries and a battery-operated radio so that you can find out information from emergency services and the media.

Remember that you may need to provide identification or important documents. Keep a copy of these in a safe place that you will be able to access.

Make a Plan

Start by putting together a family emergency plan. Develop strategies about where you will meet and where you will go for shelter. Include an out-of-town contact, as it may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town. Be sure that all family members are familiar with the plan, because in a real emergency, communication lines may not be available. Practice your plan at least once a year, and make sure everyone understands what they are supposed to do. It might be a good idea to take a first aid and CPR class as well.

Be Informed

Remember, you may need to survive on your own after an emergency. Although local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, they may not be able to reach everyone immediately. Make sure to prepare for the worst case scenario; it's always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.

For more information about what items you should include in a disaster preparedness kit, how to make a plan, and other helpful information about what your community is doing to get ready, visit the Health Department's Preparedness website at: www.gethealthycarsoncity.org or the Fire Department website at Carson.org. Additionally, Ready.gov has lots of resources to help you and your family prepare.

For more information about Health Department services, check out our website at www.gethealthycarsoncity.org or visit us on Facebook at Carson City Health and Human Services.

CLINICS

WHERE: Carson City Health and Human Services, 900 East Long St., Carson City

CALL: 775-887-2195

General Clinics: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Wednesday and Friday by appointment

Well Child visits: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays

Men's Clinic: 4-6 p.m. Mondays. Call for an appointment.

Immunization Day: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m. Thursdays. No appointment needed.

Vaccination is the best defense against the flu!

CCHHS offers flu injections for $10.

• Cortney Bloomer and Valerie Cauhape are with Carson City Health and Human Services