Prepare Kansas

Tag: #KSRE

To help Kansans become as prepared as possible for emergencies, K-State Research and Extension is offering the Prepare Kansas annual preparedness challenge. It’s a free weekly online challenge through September that includes activities individuals and families can accomplish each week. By the end of the month, participants will be better prepared to withstand and recover from emergencies.

This year’s challenge activities revolve around:

  • Making a plan – talking with others about being prepared, updating family communications plan and reviewing plans for shelter and/or evacuation, including pets, taking COVID-19 into account;
  • Building a kit – build a kit of basic emergency supplies plus grab-and-go backpacks for family members and pets;
  • Preparing for disasters – know the difference between watches and warnings, sign up for emergency alerts and participate in an emergency drill;
  • Talking to your kids – children often experience disasters differently than adults and they need to have developmentally appropriate explanations of them; and
  • Getting financially prepared – set aside money for an emergency, review insurance coverage, build or maintain a financial grab-and-go box, and complete a home inventory.

Challenge activities will be posted here so check back often!

Heat waves are prolonged periods of excessive heat, often with excessive humidity: https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat

Extreme heat makes the body work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays. Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone. Don’t forget about your pets. Share these tips from the Humane Society to keep pets safe in the heat: http://bit.ly/1RRltIL

Listen to local weather forecasts to prepare for extreme heat. Be prepared.