What would you do if the power was out for a week?

This winter should be enough of a reminder that we need to be prepared for emergencies both big and small.  Even here in Lynnwood, there were a few days when it was just about impossible to drive anywhere without chains.  You know it is bad when my husband that grew up in the wilds of North Idaho won't drive on the roads.  Thankfully, here in town those conditions are usually pretty temporary but for outlying areas roads and services can get cut off for days and that is why it is important to be prepared!

With this in mind, if you are up north, you may want to put it on your schedule to visit the second annual Emergency Preparedness Open House  January 29 put on by the Stanwood and Camano Island Relief Societies of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

This year’s event will focus on a variety of topics, including creative food storage recipes, canning techniques, water purification, and emergency foods and tools for college students and if focused on preparing people in Snohomish, Skagit and Island counties for emergencies.

Emergency supply kits will also be focused on, with an emphasis placed on designing kits to fit the necessities of each individual’s age and physical needs.

Do you have a 'get home kit' put together for your car?  Do you have a box ready with everything you need in case you have to evacuate your home?  This free event will cover a variety of potentially life saving steps you can take to prepare you and your family for disasters both big and small.

RaeJean Hasenoehrl, co-planner of the event, noted that special attention will also be placed on pet care. “Our pets are important members of our homes and they rely on us for their comfort and safety,” she said. “The likelihood of your pet surviving an emergency such as a flood or a harsh storm depends so much on the emergency planning you do today.”

Animal emergency supply kits are easily prepared and a pet care buddy system can provide peace of mind for your family and your pets.

Emergency Preparedness Open House will take place on Saturday, Jan. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 795 Ell Road, Camano Island. Admission to the family-friendly event is free.