Emergency Preparation

EARTHQUAKES

Being Prepared for an Earthquake

Living in Camas, WA, means enjoying beautiful surroundings – but it also means preparing for potential natural disasters such as earthquakes, winter storms, and power outages. Taking a few key steps now can ensure you and your family stay safe and comfortable during an emergency.

Before an Earthquake

Create an Emergency Kit: Stock up on water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days), non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, first aid supplies, medications, and a manual can opener
Secure Your Home: Bolt large furniture to walls, install latches on cabinets, and secure water heaters to prevent tipping.
Know Safe Spots: Identify sturdy furniture (like a heavy table) to take cover under during a quake.
Develop a Family Plan: Decide where to meet if separated and establish an out-of-state emergency contact.
Prepare Your Utilities: Learn how to shut off gas, water, and electricity in case of leaks or damage.

During an Earthquake

Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Get under sturdy furniture, cover your head, and stay put until the shaking stops.
Stay Indoors: If inside, avoid windows and heavy objects that could fall.
If Outside: Move away from buildings, power lines, and trees.

After an Earthquake

Check for Injuries: Administer first aid if needed.
Inspect Your Home: Look for structural damage and gas leaks. Do not use matches or lighters until you are sure there is no gas leak.
Stay Informed: Use a battery-powered radio for updates and alerts.

BLIZZARDS AND STORMS

Blizzard and Winter Storm Preparation

Winter storms can bring heavy snowfall, ice, and freezing temperatures, making travel and daily activities difficult. Being prepared will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable during a winter weather emergency.

Before a Blizzard

Stock Up on Essentials: Ensure you have food, water, blankets, and firewood if you have a fireplace.
Winterize Your Home: Insulate pipes, install weather stripping, and have alternative heat sources available.
Prepare Your Car: Keep a winter emergency kit with blankets, food, water, flashlight, extra batteries, and a full tank of gas.

During a Blizzard

Stay Indoors: Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Dress in Layers: If power goes out, wear multiple layers to stay warm.
Prevent Frozen Pipes: Let faucets drip to prevent freezing.

After a Blizzard

Clear Snow Safely: Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
Check on Neighbors: Ensure elderly or vulnerable neighbors have what they need.

POWER OUTAGES

Power Outage Preparedness

Power outages can occur due to severe weather, accidents, or infrastructure failures. Having a plan in place can help you minimize disruption and stay safe when the lights go out.

Before an Outage

Backup Power: Have flashlights, batteries, and a backup power source (such as a generator).
Charge Devices: Keep phones and power banks fully charged.
Non-Perishable Food: Stock up on food that doesn’t require refrigeration or cooking.

During an Outage

Use Flashlights Instead of Candles: Reduce fire risk by using battery-powered lighting.
Keep Fridge & Freezer Closed: Food stays cold longer if doors remain closed.
Stay Warm: Use extra blankets and layer clothing to retain heat.

After Power is Restored

Check Perishable Food: If the outage lasted more than four hours, discard spoiled food.
Reset Appliances: Turn electronics back on gradually to prevent power surges.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Emergency Service Contacts

Take note of the following contacts in case an emergency arises.

Camas Police Department: (360) 834-4151
Camas-Washougal Fire Department: (360) 834-2262
Clark County Emergency Management: (360) 992-9229
Clark Public Utilities (Power Outages): (360) 992-8000
Washington State Department of Transportation (Road Conditions): 511 or www.wsdot.wa.gov
Local Gas Emergency (NW Natural Gas): (800) 882-3377
American Red Cross (Disaster Relief): (800) 733-2767