Officials Urge Residents to Plan for Emergencies

Wyckoff emergency management officials would like to remind residents to create a home emergency kit.

As we all turn our clocks forward on March 14, township officials urge residents to check all safety devices, especially smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Additionally, it's a good time to develop a disaster plan and disaster kit, officials said.

There are several things that residents can do to prepare for the unexpected as well as reduce stress and confusion during an actual emergency.  The basics of preparedness for virtually all hazards are the same.  Following the appropriate steps and being ready means that residents will be ready for any disaster or crisis.  The following are some quick tips for emergency preparedness:

STEP ONE: Create a kit of emergency supplies

ITEMS FOR YOUR HOME:

• Three days' supply of canned, non-perishable, ready-to-eat food;
• Three days' supply of water (a total of three gallons per family member);
• Battery operated radio and extra batteries;
• Flashlight and extra batteries;
• One week's supply prescription medications;
• First aid kit;
• Personal toiletries.
• Non-electric can opener and utensils;

Special Items:

• Infant care items;
• Items for elderly family members;
• Items for relatives with disabilities;
• Cash or traveler's checks;
• Store important documents in a waterproof safe location;

In case you need to evacuate:

• Keep a half-gallon of gas at all times;
• Every family member must carry contact information;

STEP TWO: Make a plan for yourself and family

• Talk about the types of disaster that are most likely to happen in your area;
• Take time to explain the dangers of emergency incidents to children;
• Discuss why everyone needs to prepare for a disaster;
• Address any special needs concerns in the event of an emergency;
• Build an emergency contact phone list;
• Make provisions for pets;
• Remember to establish and share emergency incident responsibilities;
• Emphasize that teamwork and staying calm are key.

For more information regarding emergency preparedness and planning, visit wyckoff-nj.com, and click on "Emergency Services."