Emergency ‘Go-Bags’ is the topic of April Centennial NET meeting

Discover what emergency supplies you should have on hand, as learned at this recent Centennial Neighborhood Emergency Team meeting …

CNET leader Karen Wolfgang shows some of what’s in her own “go-bag” kits.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

On April 11, members of the Centennial Neighborhood Emergency Team (CNET) and their guests met once again for their bi-monthly meeting. More than a dozen people were there, at the Parklane Reformed Church – and the discussion centered on which emergency supplies were most important to have on hand.

Showing some of the emergency supplies being made available to those attending this CNET meeting, here’s Steve Mitchell of the Pleasant Valley NET.

As people gathered, Steve Mitchell of the Pleasant Valley NET told East Portland News that he’s been involved with the NET [Neighborhood Emergency Team] for about six years; and that he also attends NET meetings in other neighborhoods.

“It’s important for me to be involved in NET, because it helps us be prepared for any of emergencies that might take place,” Mitchell explained. “This is a good way to get together with your neighbors, and find out what you need to do to help.

“It’s more than just about preparing for our own family; this involves neighbors helping neighbors – that’s is what it’s all about.”

Although emergency response is a serious topic, attendees at this CNET meeting take a lighthearted approach to being prepared to help their families and neighbors.

“Tonight we’re talking about ‘Go-Bags’ and ‘Stay-Boxes’ – and, more specifically, what is best to have packed in them,” Centennial NET leader Karen Wolfgang said.

Every kit should be tailored to the needs of the family preparing it, Wolfgang explained, as she provided a sample list of items that might be included in these “grab and go” packages:

‘Go-Bag’ Supply List

Backpack(s) for easily carrying items
Food (ready to eat) and water
Phone charger and battery bank
Small battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight
Extra batteries
Small first-aid kit and personal medications
Personal toiletries and items (extra pair of glasses or contact lenses, etc.)
Copy of your emergency plan
Copies of important documents (insurance papers, identification, etc.)
Cash, in small bills
Local map, with your family meeting place identified
Seasonal clothing and an emergency blanket
Pen and notepad
Whistle

During the meeting CNET leader Karen Wolfgang shows some of the items she’s packed in her own “stay-box” for readiness. at home.

‘Stay-Box’ Supply List

One or two containers, such as plastic bins or duffel bags. Store them in an area of your home that’s easy to get to, such as a hall closet, spare room or garage.
Non-perishable food: Minimum three-day to one-week supply, with a manual can opener.
Water: four liters per person, per day for drinking and sanitation.
Phone charger, power bank, or inverter.
Radio(s): Battery-powered or hand-crank.
flashlight: Battery-powered or hand-crank.
Extra batteries.
First-aid kit and medications.
Personal toiletries and items, such as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses.
Copy of your emergency plan.
Copies of important documents, such as insurance papers and identification.
Cash, in small bills.
Garbage bags and moist towelettes for personal sanitation.
Seasonal clothing, sturdy footwear, and emergency blanket.
Dust masks.
Whistle.
Help/OK Sign: Display the appropriate side outward in your window during a disaster.

CNET meets every month; for their schedule, and topics, see their official webpage: CLICK HERE. Or, to learn more about the City of Portland’s NET system see their webpage: CLICK HERE.

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