Springing forward is a good time for emergency plans
When springing forward into longer days, with the start of daylight saving time, now is the time to be prepared for unexpected emergencies and severe weather season.
“Daylight saving time is often seen as the seasons changing, even though its weeks away,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator Greg Engle. “As we adjust to the time change, it’s a reminder that emergencies can strike at any time, and preparation is key to keeping our loved ones and property safe.”
Whether it is a weather-related event, a power outage or other emergency, Ready-Wisconsin recommends everyone should have a plan in place. If there’s already a plan, spring is a great time to review it with family members and make any necessary updates.
It is also a good time to assemble or restock, a home or vehicle emergency kit. Check for expired products or items that may need to be replaced. Home emergency kits should include items that are needed if someone is stuck at home for a few days, or to grab-and-go if they need to leave the area.
For a home emergency kit, it is important to have a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water in the home. Ready-Wisconsin recommends having enough water stored to provide a gallon, per person, per day, over a three-day period.
Other items in a home emergency kit should include a flashlight; extra batteries; first-aid kit; whistle; horn or another device to signal for help; photocopy of personal identification, such as a driver’s license; list of emergency contacts; personal medical information and medications; items for pets, including identification tags on collars, veterinarian records, leashes and a current photo of a family member with pets.
Daylight saving time is also an ideal time to prepare the home to better withstand the impact of severe weather events, including the following:
• Remove debris from gutters, drains and downspouts. Make sure downspouts direct water away from the home and not toward the foundation.
• Trim tree limbs and branches, so they do not snap off during high winds and damage the home. If limbs are hanging near power lines, contact the utility provider about having them removed.
• If a home has a sump pump, test it to make sure it is clean and operable. Consider adding a battery-powered backup sump pump, to keep the system working, if the power goes out.
• Review home insurance policies, to ensure it is covered for hazards that threaten the area. Keep an up-to-date record of household items and valuable belongings. Take photos of appliances, as well as the interior and exterior structure of the property. These are important when filing insurance claims.
• Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Test the equipment to ensure it is functioning and invest in new alarms, if they are near, or past, the recommended replacement age.
Michael Weiland (left) serves as primary care for his uncle, which means he is aware of special needs people have, when requesting his services through Worryfree Transport. Weiland is accepting customers for the ride share in multiple rural areas, anywhere that someone truly needs a ride.
Photo by Ginna Young
