Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
The best time to prepare for a disaster is long before it happens. While it's tempting to think that nothing bad could ever happen in this beautiful state, having a solid plan in place is the key to ensuring a smooth response when the unexpected does occur.
One very critical way to help prepare the community for emergencies is by participating in the Hazard Mitigation Survey. This survey allows residents to voice their concerns and experiences, which is crucial for identifying risks and developing strategies to protect lives and property. By taking a few minutes to complete this survey, you contribute to a safer Salt Lake County and help the county become eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency grant programs. Your input isn't just appreciated — it's essential!
Your response also helps save money because every $1 invested in mitigation can save $6 on future disaster losses.
Once you complete the survey, here are five potential emergencies you'll want to prepare yourself for in the future.
Earthquakes
The Utah Seismic Safety Commission estimates a 57% probability that the Wasatch Front will experience at least one earthquake of Magnitude 6.0 or greater, and a 43% probability of at least one earthquake of Magnitude 6.75 or greater in the next 50 years. With such high odds, it's important to be prepared.
Salt Lake County Emergency Management recommends signing up for earthquake tips by texting "UTAHQUAKE" to 43362. Practice the "drop, cover and hold on" technique with your families and coworkers, and make sure to create an emergency plan that includes an out-of-state contact and designated meeting place.
You'll also want to assemble an emergency earthquake supply kit with several days' worth of non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher, a whistle, soap and disinfecting wipes. Make your home a safer place by securing heavy items and placing breakables on lower shelves. Lastly, you may want to consider purchasing earthquake insurance since many homeowner policies don't typically provide that coverage.
Wildfires
To prepare for wildfires, first make sure you're receiving alerts through multiple channels, such as the FEMA app and the Emergency Alert System. You'll want to create a family communication and evacuation plan and securely store important documents digitally. Protect your home with fire-resistant materials and assemble a go-bag filled with the essentials you may need in case of an evacuation.
For more tips, click here.
Extreme weather
There are many things you can do to prepare for extreme weather incidents, but for extreme winter weather, Salt Lake County Emergency Management has a few suggestions. If you know cold weather is coming, prepare your home for it by making sure it's properly insulated from the elements. Learn how to keep your pipes from freezing and install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups. You'll also want to gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Don't forget individual medications, pet needs and extra batteries for radios and flashlights!
Terrorism attacks
The most important way to prevent terrorism in Utah is to follow the "see something, say something" rule. If you see something suspicious, report it to the authorities. From there, an analyst will determine if other reports back up your claims and will make the appropriate referrals. Your report should take less than five minutes to complete and it remains confidential.
Click here to learn what the eight signs of terrorism are.
Hazardous materials incidents
Hazardous materials incidents can be alarming, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. If authorities instruct you to shelter in place, quickly bring your children and pets indoors, sealing doors and windows with plastic sheeting and duct tape. In case of an evacuation, listen to your radio for instructions and avoid using your phone to keep lines open for emergency services.
Serve your community by taking the Hazards Mitigation Survey
When it comes to protecting the community, it's impossible to overstate the importance of mitigation — and that's much more likely to happen when individuals speak up and voice concerns. By participating in the Hazard Mitigation Plan Survey, you're taking a crucial step in identifying risks and developing strategies to protect lives and property.
Help make your community a little more secure by taking the Hazards Mitigation Survey today. It only takes a few minutes to make a big difference!
