News from Idaho State Independent Living Council

Promoting Independent Living for all Idahoans

Spring Cleaning for Emergency Preparedness

 March 20th was the official beginning of spring and for a lot of households that means one thing: spring cleaning! It’s also a great chance to make sure your family is prepared for inclement weather and other natural disasters. Check out the list below to keep your home and your loved ones safe and sound throughout the year.

Check your smoke alarms
The batteries in your smoke detectors should be replaced twice a year. While you’re at it, test to make sure each one is working, and be sure that you have at least one detector installed on each level of your home.

Clear that laundry lint
Built up lint behind the dryer is a major cause of house fires. Use a vacuum hose to remove any stray lint that may be hiding back there.

Trim those limbs
Dead trees and rotten branches can pose a major threat during severe storms. High winds can easily pull them down onto your home, causing property damage or injuries. Take the time during spring cleaning to identify and remove limbs and trees that may cause problems around the yard.

Get your weather radio ready for action
Every home should have a NOAA Weather Radio to receive official updates during emergencies. They can be purchased at any electronics store or online, and the batteries should be replaced at least once a year.

Find your safe place

Identify the best place in your home to take shelter in case of severe weather or natural disaster, such as an earthquake. Make sure everyone in the family knows where to go in an emergency!

Make a plan
Create a plan for your family to meet up in case you are separated during an emergency. Choose a meeting place and strategy for contacting one another, make sure everyone knows the plan by heart. It is a good idea to have someone from outside your area be your phone contact…local phone lines may be overwhelmed.

Stock your supplies

An emergency bag is a must for all homes. Keep items together. A duffel bag or backpack works great. Once you have it put together, make sure everyone in the family knows where it is, and it is only to be used in emergencies. You can get a list of items here: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home-products/a33605583/bug-out-bag-list/