City of Everett Encourages Residents to Be Prepared for Emergencies

September is National Preparedness Month, and the City of Everett is encouraging residents to take steps now to be ready for emergencies that could affect our community.

Emergencies can happen with little to no warning, from severe weather and flooding to earthquakes, power outages and other unexpected events. Being prepared can help residents protect themselves and their families, reduce stress during an emergency and support neighbors and other community members who may need additional assistance.

“Preparedness is about more than just having supplies on hand – it’s knowing what to do and where to turn when an emergency happens,” said Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin. “When residents are prepared, our entire community is stronger, more resilient and able to recover more quickly.”

Throughout September, the City is sharing preparedness information and resources focused on four key areas:

• Build an emergency kit. Keep enough food, water, medications and other essential supplies on hand to be self-sufficient for at least several days. Consider the needs of children, older adults, pets and anyone else in your household. Check out the full list (including translations) by visiting: ready.gov/kit
• Make a plan. Talk with your household about how you will communicate, where you will go and what you will do if you need to evacuate or shelter in place. Make sure everyone knows how to reconnect if you become separated. Learn more: ready.gov/plan
• Stay informed. Sign up for emergency alerts at snocoalerts.snoco.org and follow along with the City of Everett, Snohomish County DEM and other trusted local sources for information during an emergency. Have multiple ways to receive information – like a battery powered or hand crank radio – in case one communication method becomes unavailable.
• Know your community. Learn about hazards that could affect Everett and Snohomish County, like earthquakes, floods and severe weather. Talk with your household, neighbors and other community members about how you can support one another before, during and after an emergency. Learn more by visiting: ready.gov/be-informed

“Emergency preparedness can seem like a daunting task, but taking small steps – like storing an extra case of water or purchasing an emergency radio – can make a difference should an emergency or disaster strike,” said Jim Sande, emergency management director.

For those interested in significantly improving their emergency preparedness, consider the ‘Prepare In A Year’ program that breaks the process up into smaller tasks that can be completed over a 12-month period. Learn more by visiting: mil.wa.gov/prepare-in-a-year

National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to start, but preparedness is a year-round effort. By taking steps today, Everett residents can help build a safer, stronger and more connected community.

Residents can learn more about emergency preparedness, emergency alerts and other resources at everettwa.gov/preparedness.