PREP encourages preparedness for families, households and immediate neighborhoods, since emergency services may be overwhelmed and unable to respond promptly after a major disaster. Experience shows that "while official help is useful...it is the personal ties among members of a community that determine survival during a disaster, and recovery in its aftermath.”
- (NPR.org: “The Key to Disaster Survival? Friends and Neighbors”)
PREP emphasizes readiness for earthquakes and tsunamis, because if you’re ready for an earthquake you’re pretty much ready for anything. The next megaquake from the Cascadia Subduction Zone could happen anytime and will likely leave the Portland area without utilities, food and fuel deliveries, and other services for a week to a month or longer. Travel and communication may be difficult or impossible for a time.
The PREP website contains printable checklists plus links to more information. Portland residents can pick up preparedness handouts and a host kit at the nearest neighborhood district coalition office. Or if you live in Multnomah County but outside of Portland, call 503/988-4233. The website also includes a calendar of events and information on setting your household up for longer-term resilience.
PREP has been developed by a group of volunteer first responders and members of community groups, in particular Transition PDX. Other collaborating partners include:
For more information, visit www.PREPOregon.org or email info@preporegon.org. Email any suggestions about the website content to content@preporegon.org.
Items should be stored in well protected water proof pouch(es)/buckets, in an accessible area like a shed or garage (in the house is not recommended do to our area's potential for earthquakes)
Grab and Go kits are good to keep at the base of a window, where you can grab them on your way out in an emergency. Good habit to keep a pair of slip on shoes and a flashlight under your bed too. Prices listed current as of March 2012 and should be used only as a guide - not garanteed.