COLUMN: How to get “2 weeks ready” for any emergency

Salem Reporter is publishing a new regular column from Mark Wardell, West Salem Team Leader for Salem’s Community Emergency Response Team, focusing on emergency preparedness and planning.

In my June article, I briefly introduced the 2 Weeks Ready program. Today, we’ll delve into the newly updated program from the Oregon Office of Emergency Management.

Last month I said, “You never know when the day before is the day before, prepare for tomorrow.” Disasters can strike unexpectedly, so it’s important to be prepared. Being 2 Weeks Ready means having an emergency plan and at least a two-week supply of food, water, and other essentials for your household. This will help you weather any emergency, from ice storms and power outages to earthquakes.

Depending on the severity of an event, you could be without utilities or services for an extended period (look at those areas affected by Hurricane Beryl). Working towards becoming 2 Weeks Ready might seem daunting, but don’t get discouraged. Take it step-by-step; even slow progress is progress. The important thing is to be consistently preparing, each step bringing you closer to your goal of being 2 Weeks Ready.

Where to begin

For the first step of the new 2 Weeks Ready program from the Oregon Office of Emergency Management, we begin with “Preparing to Prepare.”

In emergency preparedness, earthquakes are a frequent topic. Here in Oregon, our focus is on the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a fault line stretching from British Columbia down to California. A potential earthquake there could reach a magnitude of 9.0 on the Richter scale: in other words not just bad, but very bad. It would be unlike anything Oregon has ever experienced. The last major earthquake from this zone struck in 1700 and caused a tsunami that even impacted parts of Japan.

We focus on earthquakes because they represent a worst-case scenario. The better prepared we are for that 9.0 earthquake, the better prepared we are for any other emergency. That is my goal, to help us face any situation with confidence, saying “We got this!”

Preparing to prepare

The OEM plan suggests starting with a crucial step: considering what we’d need if we had to survive for two weeks without basic utilities.

To determine these needs, the plan recommends keeping a journal. As the OEM states, “Journaling is a way to keep records of things—what you have and consume, what you’ve done and experienced, and how you feel about what’s happening or has happened in your life.”

Tracking your daily activities, food, and water consumption will help you identify the supplies you’ll need for two weeks. While considering worst-case scenarios might cause some fear and anxiety, writing those fears down can help you process these emotions and develop coping mechanisms.

Journaling can also help you set and track goals as you progress towards preparedness, allowing you to celebrate your achievements along the way.

Journals can come in many forms: a classic notebook and pen, a computer document, or even voice memo recordings on your phone. For those who enjoy sharing, consider creating a podcast or video log online.

Finally, if you have children, encourage them to keep their own journals. Preparedness is a family effort, and everyone should be involved in the process.

Food and water

A crucial part of being prepared is having a two-week supply of food and water for everyone in your household. The new plan from OEM covers food and water in Parts 3 and 4, respectively. However, let’s get a jump start on building your supply!

This list is adapted from one published by Marion County. By following it, you can be prepared within a year. Building a two-week supply takes time and budgeting, so pace yourself, don’t rush, and take breaks when necessary.

Week 1: Water

The goal is to have at least one gallon of water per person per day, with extra for pets. For example, a family of two would need 28 gallons for two weeks, and a family of four would require 56 gallons. It can seem like a lot, so start building your supply now.

You can also purchase water filters or purification tablets. Remember, boiling water may not always be an option. Be creative; there are solutions! While you don’t need to buy everything at once, create a plan and stick to it.

Week 2: Can opener

This might seem obvious, but make sure you have a hand-operated can opener. Choose one that’s easy for you to use, whether it’s a simple or deluxe model.

Week 3: Instant drinks

Consider adding instant drinks like powdered milk or fruit drinks to your kit. These will add flavor and potentially vitamins to your water.

Week 4: Flashlights and batteries

Keep several flashlights throughout the house, especially in areas you frequent. Opt for a sturdy flashlight that uses regular batteries. Speaking of batteries, buy extras and rotate them as they expire.

Week 5: Canned food

Stock up on canned goods like meat, stew, pasta, prepared soups, and pork & beans. The amount you need depends on your family size and preferences. Remember, the goal is to have a two-week supply.

Coming up next month

Next month we’ll be talking about your emergency plan, what it is, some things that should be in your plan, and why it’s important. If you would like to read ahead, you will find all the information provided by OEM by visiting the official 2 Weeks Ready website.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about anything in this article, or wish to contact me about joining CERT or having a CERT presentation for your church, civic group or HOA, feel free to reach out to me. My name is Mark Wardell and you can email me [email protected].

STORY TIP OR IDEA? Send an email to Salem Reporter’s news team: [email protected].

A MOMENT MORE, PLEASE– If you found this story useful, consider subscribing to Salem Reporter if you don’t already. Work such as this, done by local professionals, depends on community support from subscribers. Please take a moment and sign up now – easy and secure: SUBSCRIBE.