As a real estate agent, I wear the hat that helps people buy and sell their most important investments. I also wear the hat of CERT Emergency Worker for the city of Shoreline. As a community emergency worker, I know that it is so important to have a plan when dealing with the uncertain. Those plans can save your life and your most vital assets.

Residents of the Pacific Northwest know that our fall and winters can be pretty bad. Just this morning there were multiple accidents and incidents relating to the rain and bad weather. We must have a plan for the unexpected so if, heaven forbid, something does happen, you will be prepared!

I get frequent updated and articles relating to the topic of emergency preparedness. The article below has tons of great information and tips to get you and your family prepared for the storms and extreme winter weather.

Get Prepared & Be Safe!

Camp Murray, Wash. - Forecasts for stormy weather in the coming days mean it is time for action to prepare for winds, rain and floods. 

"Fall is our stormy time of year, and a few preparedness steps now can make a big difference in protecting your home and family," said Jim Mullen, director, Washington Emergency Management Division, Washington Military Department. 

Mullen said one huge preparedness step home- and business-owners can take is to clean out gutters and street drains which could clog with leaves and create urban flooding problems. "You'd be amazed," he said, "how this simple step will keep traffic moving through your neighborhood and free up city crews to focus on other pressure points."

Other preparedness tips:

·  Listen to your radio or television for winter storm forecasts and other information.

·  Check on your disaster preparedness kit to ensure it contains food, light sticks, water, flashlights, a battery-powered radio and a wind-up clock.

·  Know how to safely use a generator so it will not create a dangerous indoor carbon monoxide buildup.

·  Never burn charcoal or use a generator indoors or in carport.

·  Stay away from downed power lines. 

·  Call 9-1-1 only for emergencies.  Dial 2-1-1 for other information.

Preparing to drive in heavy rains:

·  Equip your vehicle with all-season tires.

·  Fill your gas tank before stormy weather hits.

·  Dress to keep warm and dry if you become stranded and have to walk.

·  Allow extra time to reach your destination.

·  Take routes that avoid low-lying roads that may be underwater.

·  Follow official emergency evacuation routes.

·  Do not go around "Road Closed" barriers.

·  Do not drive or walk through standing water.

·  If you vehicle stalls in floodwater, get out quickly and move to higher ground.

Additional preparedness information can be found at the Washington Emergency Management Division's (WEMD) Web site at http://emd.wa.gov. You also may contact Rosanne Garrand, WEMD public education program coordinator, (253) 512-7419.