EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS -- PUTTING FAMILY FIRST

It is entirely too late in an emergency to get prepared. Here are some things that you can do now, and contrary to popular belief, bottled water will not go bad, and if there is NO WATER available, it might just come in handy, IF YOU HAVE SOME.

Here are a few things you can do without the help of your local government (or any government for that matter):

1. PUT aside one gallon of water per person per day for three days STORED IN PLASTIC CONTAINERS.

2. STORE an equal amount of food per person per day for three days.
Ready to eat canned meat, fruit and vegetables.
Canned soup, shelf milk, and juices
Food for infants, adults with special diets and seniors in your family.
High energy snacks -- crackers, trail mix, granola bars, peanut butter.
Comfort foods -- cookies, candy, hot chocolate, tea bags, instant coffee.
(DO NOT forget to include a NON-ELECTRIC can opener, matches AND a cigarette lighter.)
3. SAVE or GET your prescription drugs in 90 days supply and put ONE FULL prescription -- 30 days up and change out at least every six months so that they do not expire.
4. GET and STORE a first aid kit that includes non-prescription drugs like pain relievers, stomach medicines, and allergy medications.
5. PURCHASE a durable flashlight AND extra batteries. DO NOT PUT IN THE FLASHLIGHT. CHECK and CHANGE the batteries to make sure they are working at least every six month.
6. STORE/PUT AWAY some cash including nickels, dimes, and quarters -- at least one roll each and about $100.
7. INCLUDE a small tool kit with hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, nails, and other necessary tools for an emergency.
8. DON'T forget toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, sanitary napkins, toothbrushes, and other hygiene items.
9. GOT PETS? Don't forget they need food and water, carrying case, leash, and proof of rabies shots.
10. PORTABLE RADIO and BATTERIES will go a long way in helping to keep you in touch.
11. WALKIE TALKIE is nice, but require batteries so don't forget to include a few. Remember, cell phones MAY NOT WORK.

In an emergency call 911 (WHEN CALLING 911 please stay on the line until your call is answered IF AT ALL POSSIBLE) or the County -- 301883-3308.

In an emergency and/or disaster in our AREA, Mount Rainier's Command staff (Jeannelle Wallace, Chief Michael Scott and your Mayor) will be in place to minimize the impact of the disaster, but will NEED YOU doing your part. These steps will help us help you.

When there is a power outage CALL PEPCO -- 1-202-872-3432 or 1877-737-2662. Lights Out: PEPCO 202-833-7500

When there is a water main break CALL WSSC -- 301-206-4002.

When there is a gas leak CALL Washington Gas Company. If you smell gas, or if you have an emergency involving natural gas, leave the area immediately, and call Washington Gas at (703) 750-1400 or 1 (800) 752-7520.

Mount Rainier's Police Department Emergency -- 301-985-6565

Prince George's County Police Emergency -- 301-333-4000 or 301-336-8800

Prince George's County Fire 301-499-8400

Telephone Lines: Verizon 301-954-6260

TDD users, call 911 for emergencies.
When dialing 9-1-1, wait until your call is answered and tap TDD bar 5 times.

Fire Emergency TDD 301-782-7619

Poison Control Center 1-800-492-2414

National Response Center 1-800-424-8802