Las Vegas City Wire

Are you and your loved ones prepared for a disaster? As recent earthquakes in California, wildfires in Northern Nevada, and flooding in the Northeast illustrate, preparedness can be key to surviving major incidents. September is National Preparedness Month—a reminder to review your emergency plans, re-stock your emergency kit, and ensure everyone in the family knows what to do in all kinds of disaster situations.

The city of Las Vegas works to improve local disaster readiness by supplying important information and opportunities for emergency response training to the public throughout the year. The city’s Office of Emergency Management staff will provide links and preparedness tips through its official Twitter (X) account, CLV Emergency Alerts (@CLVAlerts), during the month of September. Follow @CLVAlerts to keep up with local advisories and learn:

- How to make an emergency plan and emergency kit

- How to prepare your family and pets for a possible evacuation

- How to plan financially for the possibility of a disaster

- How to obtain alerts directly via e-mail, phone or text

- How to learn valuable life-saving skills in the event you have to help your family, friends, and/or neighbors

- How to access valuable resources before, during, and after a disaster

Emergency preparedness is critical for anyone living in Las Vegas, but older adults especially may require specific needs following a disaster. Older adults should take some important steps to prepare for the unexpected.

The first step is to stay informed about emergencies in the area by following local television and radio stations before and during a disaster. Seniors can also sign up for emergency alerts and warnings.

It is also important to create a printed communications plan that includes important phone numbers, emergency contacts, and emergency meeting places. Be sure to keep the plan somewhere easily accessible—like on the refrigerator.

Seniors should make an emergency kit that includes at least three days’ worth of water (one gallon per person or pet each day), food, medicine, clothes, batteries, chargers, cash, and important documents.

It is important to develop a plan in case of an evacuation, especially if you are dependent on someone else for transportation.

Many seniors may be affected by a disability. FEMA recommends several tips for disabled people that include having a support network of people, keeping a physical record of your medical history, and stocking supplies pertaining to your disability.

Disasters can be trying for people of all ages; however, for seniors, the effects can be particularly dangerous. Prepare now to avoid problems later. Find more information here and at https://www.ready.gov/september.