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Scott unit offers advice for disaster preparedness

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Sarah Hall-Kirchner
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Would you and your family be prepared if a disaster struck tomorrow?

There are many things that Team Scott can do today to prepare for any type of emergency that might occur, and the 375th Civil Engineer Squadron Readiness and Emergency Management Flight has tips for preparing.

Master Sgt. Jinnie Lettkeman, 375th CES Readiness and Emergency Management Superintendent, recommends that everyone has an emergency preparedness kit for their home and car.

"Some of the basics include: enough non-perishable food and water (1 gallon per person, per day) for three days, flashlights and extra batteries, warm clothing and extra blankets, and bleach to purify drinking water.  You will also want to pack a few days' worth of prescription medicines," said Lettkeman. "You should also be sure to get your furnace serviced, change your home's carbon monoxide detectors, and think about your pets' needs."

Children, as part of the family, should be included in the planning process for disasters.

"[Including children] can help them feel more in control and less vulnerable," said Lettkeman. "Have drills with your family so that you can be assured they know what to do if you're not around, or if you have a medical emergency."

Children should know who to contact if they are alone. Emergency contact information, including medical information, should be posted near the phone. Children should know where the emergency kit is stored and copies of the family's emergency plan should be in emergency supply kits, in children's backpacks, in vehicles, etc.

The Air Force has provided a website, www.beready.af.mil, with helpful information to prepare for disasters. The Federal Emergency Management Agency also has a readiness website, www.ready.gov, which also provides information on disaster preparedness.

The Base Emergency Preparedness Orientation, which is held during all Newcomer's Briefings, is the first way Scott personnel have to learn about what types of disasters threaten our area. The Office of Emergency Management maintains communication with members by using Unit Emergency Management Representatives to help get the word out.

"Members should also bring that information home to their family members, friends, and neighbors," said Lettkeman.