Be Better Prepared for Emergencies

By FPL_Adam

During a major event, getting up to date information that is pertinent to our local area can make all the difference in knowing how to respond. The City of Frisco uses CodeRED to send emergency notifications by phone, email, and text to keep citizens informed of emergencies.

The City may also activate CodeRED to send general notifications to registered subscribers to communicate nonlife-threatening safety matters, such as planned road closures, water main repairs, water and power service interruptions, trash pickup route changes, etc. By selecting the box for GENERAL alerts, you can also receive these types of notifications.

Registering for CodeRED is quick and easy: CodeRED Web, opens a new window

Things To Know About CodeRED:

  • CodeRED delivers notifications by phone, email, text and/or mobile alerts
  • CodeRED is compatible with TDD/TTY devices
  • You can opt out of notifications at any time
  • Individuals and businesses may add as many phone numbers, emails and text numbers as they choose

Disaster Kit

Prepare for disaster before it strikes by assembling a disaster supplies kit. Once disaster hits, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. But if you've gathered supplies in advance, your family can endure an evacuation or home confinement. Your kit should be stored in a convenient place known to everyone in your family. Keep a smaller version of your disaster kit in your vehicle. Most items should be kept in airtight plastic bags.

Water

An active person needs to drink at least 2 quarts of water each day. Hot environment and intense physical activity can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers and ill people will need more.

Stored water should be changed every 6 months to stay fresh. A good time to do this is when you change your clocks for daylight savings time.

Food

Store at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little to no water. If you must heat food, pack a can of Sterno. Select food items that are compact and lightweight. Food items should also be changed every 6 months. Recommended non-perishable foods include:

  • Canned juices, milk, soup (if powdered, store more water)
  • Comfort foods: cookies, hard candy, cereals, instant coffee, tea bags
  • Foods for infants, elderly, or persons with special diets
  • High energy foods: peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola, and trail mix
  • Ready to eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables
  • Staples seasons like sugar, salt, and pepper

First Aid Kit

Assemble a first aid kit for your home and for each vehicle you own. Your family physician or pharmacist should be consulted about storing prescription medications. A first aid kit should generally contain the following:

  • Antiseptic agent
  • Cleansing agent or soap
  • Hypoallergenic adhesive tape
  • Latex gloves
  • Moistened towelettes
  • Non-prescription drugs (aspirin, antacid, anti-diarrhea, ipecac, laxatives)
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Prescription drugs
  • Safety Pins
  • Sterile adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes
  • Sterile gauze pads
  • Sunscreen
  • Thermometer
  • Triangular bandages
  • Tweezers, scissors, and a needle
  • Vitamins
  • Tools & supplies

A variety of tools and basic supplies are recommended to accompany your disaster kit:

  • Aluminum foil
  • Battery operated radio or TV with spare batteries
  • Cash or traveler's checks
  • Compass
  • Duct tape
  • Emergency preparedness manual
  • Fire extinguisher (Small ABC Type)
  • Flashlight with spare batteries
  • Map of area (for locating shelters)
  • Matches in waterproof container
  • Medicine dropper
  • Mess kits, plates, cups, plastic utensils
  • Needles and thread
  • Non-electric can opener
  • Paper, pencil
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Plastic storage containers
  • Shut-off wrench for household utilities
  • Signal flare
  • Whistle
  • Clothing & Bedding / Blankets or sleeping bags

Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person including:

  • Hats and gloves
  • Rain gear
  • Sturdy shoes or work boots
  • Sunglasses
  • Thermal underwear
  • Special Items

Remember family members with special needs, such as infants and elderly or disabled persons:

  • Heart and high blood pressure medications, insulin, prescriptions, eyeglasses, contact lenses and supplies, denture needs
  • Formula, diapers, bottles, powdered milk, medications, pacifier
  • Pet food and supplies

Information you will want to have on hand in an emergency:

  • Bank account information
  • Credit card numbers and companies
  • Identification, passports, social security cards
  • Important family documents in waterproof container
  • Inventory of household valuables

Check your kit at least once a year and replace old batteries and update clothing as needed.