Create a "Ready In Three" Preparedness Plan for Emergencies

A three-step preparedness plan (commonly known as Ready in 3) will help you, your family, your business, and your neighborhood mitigate damages and return to normal activities more quickly.

The first step is to “Create a Plan” that is understood by all members of your group. This plan should determine how and where you would meet and should consider at least two scenarios — staying in place and evacuating.

Step two, “Prepare a Kit,” involves supplying your family, coworkers and pets with materials to sustain themselves for up to three days.

The last step, “Listen for Information,” will prepare you to receive life-saving updates from local media and recovery agencies.

An emergency kit is easy to arrange using items you likely already have on hand. Collecting one gallon of water per person, per day and non-perishable foods (along with a manual can opener) will provide nourishment. A battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries will enable you receive important updates to help protect your family if power is lost. The pack should also contain prescription medicines and a First Aid kit to care for minor injuries. If you do own pets, it’s also necessary to include food, water, and waste removal items for them as well. Storing the kit in a waterproof and easily transportable case will allow you to bring it with you should you need to evacuate. To view a Ready in 3 kit, please visit http://health.mo.gov/emergencies/readyin3/kit.php.

The county’s Department of Community Health and the Environment and Division of Emergency Management are coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to prepare our community’s response in times of need. To most effectively manage these efforts, a new committee – the (COAD) – has been formed. Non-profit, governmental, volunteer, faith-based, public service, and private business organizations are invited to join this group, that seeks to meet unmet needs and minimize duplication of services. For information on how your group can join St. Charles County’s COAD, please call (636) 949-3023.