Threats to the public are always present. They can be from natural or man-made causes and can lead to the onset of public health incidents. Preparedness is something everyone can do to feel more confident when they do arise. Public Health is here to support, guide, help, and encourage individuals, families, and communities to thrive before, during, and after all hazards.

One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food Battery-powered or hand crank radio NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Whistle to signal for help N-95 masks Moist towelettes Garbage bags Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities Can opener for food Local maps	Develop a communication plan: Make sure everyone in your household knows how to contact each other and where to meet up if you get separated. Know evacuation routes: Know the best routes to take. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to get out of the house quickly and safely. Practice your plan: Regularly review your plan with your household and conduct emergency drills to make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Identify an emergency contact: Have an individual that your family can reach in case of an emergency. Be sure every member of your family knows their phone number and has the means to call them.		Subscribe to alert services, such as Winnebago County’s Alerts System to register your cell phone or email. Monitor Winnebago County Public Health's and Winnebago County Emergency Management's Facebook pages. Monitor local media during a disaster for the latest information.

Additional Tips and Information

• Gather the kit's items in easy-to-carry containers or duffel bags. Put them in an easy-to-reach location.
• Check and update your kit at least once a year.
• Your Emergency Supply Kit should include 3 to 14 days of supplies.
• Remember the Ps: Persons, Pills, Pets, and Pocketbooks.
• Home Emergency Kit
• On the Go Emergency Kit
• Vehicle Emergency Kit
• Pet Emergency Kit
• Family Communications Plan
• Make a Plan (Ready.gov)
• Kids Safety
• Emergency Preparedness for Seniors
• Emergency Preparedness for Special Needs
• Disaster Safety for People with Disabilities
• Preparing for Disasters for People with Disabilities and Other Special Needs
• Emergency Preparedness for Pets
• Get help creating plans for your family, seniors, pets, those with disabilities, and more here.

✔️ BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING.

Power Outages

Power outages are becoming increasingly common and losing power can be a major inconvenience and even a safety hazard. Here are some tips for staying safe and minimizing the impact of power outages:

• Charge your devices: Keep your cell phone, laptop, and other devices charged in case of an outage. You may also want to invest in a portable power bank or generator to keep your devices powered up.
• Keep your fridge and freezer closed: If the power goes out, keep your fridge and freezer closed to prevent food from spoiling. An unopened fridge should keep food cold for up to four hours, while a full freezer can keep food frozen for up to 48 hours.
• Use alternative light sources: If you don't have access to flashlights or candles, try using solar lights or even your car headlights to light up your home.
• Be aware: Check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may need extra assistance during an outage.

Additional Resources

• Preparedness: Utility Service Interruptions (DHS)
• Power Outages (Ready.gov)
• Wisconsin Public Service Outage Map
• WE Energies Outage Map
• Alliant Energy Outage Map
• Menasha Utilities Customer Service

Severe Weather

Severe weather can strike at any time, so it's important to be prepared. Make sure to have a plan in place for communication and evacuation, and stock up on essential supplies like food, water, and first aid items. Stay informed by monitoring the weather and local news, and follow any evacuation orders or emergency alerts. By taking these steps, you can be ready for whatever severe weather comes your way.

Flooding

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters that can cause significant damage to your property and even put your life at risk. Don't wait until it's too late and always remember:  turn around, don't drown.

Additional Resources

• Floods (Ready.gov)
• Preparing for a Flood
• Cleaning Up Your Home After a Flood (DHS)
• Flood Information (CDC)
• Turn Around, Don't Drown (National Weather Service)
• Turn Around, Don't Drown (weather.gov)

Extreme Heat

If you are under an extreme heat warning you can take these precautions:

• Stay indoors in a location with working air conditioning or go to a location with air conditioning.
• Wear light and loose clothing.
• Stay hydrated.
• If outdoors, seek shaded areas or wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun.
• Avoid overexertion and strenuous activity, especially during the warmest part of the day.
• Know and watch for signs of heat-related illnesses.
• Check on elderly neighbors and those who may be more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.
• Need someplace to cool off? Find a cooling location here.
• Download the Heat Safety Tool App here!
• Learn how to stay cool without air conditioning.

Additional Resources

• Heat Safety Tips and Information (weather.gov)
• Urban Heat Information
• Extreme Heat Information (Ready.gov)
• Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness (CDC)
• National Integrated Heat Health Information System

Severe Storms You can take these precautions during severe storms: Stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities during a thunderstorm. If you're caught outside, avoid open fields, isolated trees, and high ground. Do not use electronic devices or appliances, as they can conduct electricity. If you're driving, pull over and stay inside your car with the windows closed. Unplug electronics and appliances to protect them from power surges. If you hear a tornado siren or warning, take shelter immediately in a basement or interior room without windows. Have a family emergency plan in place and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of severe weather.  Additional Resources Thunderstorms and Lightning Information (Ready.gov) Tornado Information (Ready.gov) Straight-Line Winds vs. Tornadoes (weather.gov) Lightning Safety (CDC)

Extreme Cold and Winter Weather Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind: Dress appropriately: Layer up with warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf. It's also important to wear waterproof boots with good traction to prevent slipping on ice. Keep your home warm: Make sure your home is properly insulated and that your heating system is in good working condition. If you use a space heater, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and keep it away from flammable materials. Prepare for power outages: Have a backup plan in case of a power outage, such as a generator or a supply of extra blankets and warm clothing. Stock up on supplies: Keep a supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and any necessary medications in case you are snowed in for an extended period of time. Stay informed: Monitor weather reports and stay up-to-date on any advisories or warnings in your area. Need someplace to get warm? Find a warming location here. Additional Resources Winter Weather Information (Ready.gov) Wind Chill Chart (weather.gov) Winter Weather (CDC)

Air Quality Index

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measurement used to report the quality of the air we breathe. It takes into account several pollutants, such as ground-level ozone, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide, and provides a numerical value to indicate how polluted the air is. The AQI ranges from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating poorer air quality. Understanding the AQI and how it is calculated can help make informed decisions about outdoor activities, especially for people with respiratory problems or other health concerns.

Additional Resources

• Airnow.gov
• Wisconsin Air Quality Monitoring Data

Additional Threats and Information

• Sheltering in Place
• Pandemics
• Chemicals and Hazardous Materials Incidents
• Biohazard Exposure