Who Depends On You in Clark County?

No one likes to imagine the unimaginable, but your family depends on you to be prepared. By preparing now, you can improve the chances that you and your loved ones can survive the next earthquake, flood, or hazardous chemical spill. To quote Snoopy, "Five minutes before the party is NOT the time to learn to dance". The same goes for getting your emergency kits and contacts in place. Please prepare BEFORE a disaster strikes!

Local governments and agencies in Clark County are working together to encourage families, schools, businesses, and communities to get prepared during National Preparedness Month this September. Several activities have been planned to help raise awareness of emergency preparedness. They include:

CRESA 9-1-1 Day Open House is Saturday, September 13, 11 am - 2 pm, 710 W. 13th Street, Vancouver. There will be tours of the 9-1-1 Center and Emergency Operations Center along with many regional public safety partners promoting awareness of emergency services. Stop by and see the “Who Depends On You” booth with games and prizes for both children and adults along with free food provided by local area business. Free parking is provided for this event.

Public Safety Complex Open House, Saturday, September 27, noon – 4 pm, 505 NW 179 ST, Ridgefield. Police dog demonstrations, auto extrication by fire personnel, fire safety house for kids, free food and more.

Vancouver Fire Department Open House, Saturday, October 4, 11 am – 2 pm, 7110 NE 63rd Street, Vancouver. Citizens are encouraged to look for the emergency preparedness booths to get information on upcoming Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT) classes and to talk to local experts about the “Who Depends On You” preparedness campaign.

Individuals and families are encouraged to take the following steps to prepare for disasters:
1) Assemble or buy a disaster supplies kit containing at least three days of provisions in an easy–to–carry container. Check stock every six months and replace expired items. Keep at least a 3-day supply of water at home, a gallon of water per person per day.
2) Create a family or household communications plan so everyone knows how to reach each other; include an out-of-area phone contact and where to meet if it’s not possible to go home.
3) Learn about available resources and what types of disasters are most likely to occur where you live, work and play. If possible, take first aid and CPR courses.

National Preparedness Month is a coordinated, nationwide effort sponsored each September by the Department of Homeland Security to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness and encourage individuals to take action.

For more information, contact:
Southwest Washington Red Cross
Clark County Public Health
City of Vancouver Emergency Preparedness
Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency
Clark County Fire District 6
Washington Department of Health - Emergency Resource Guide
Washington State Emergency Management