Don’t Get Caught Unprepared!

While some parts of the U.S. deal with catastrophic hurricanes and tornadoes this time a year, we deal with massive dust storms, raging winds tearing through the valley, and flash floods. For those who live or have lived in Arizona you know the dangers that come with these monsoons. We want to make sure you stay safe out on the roads and in your homes so we’ve provided a few safety tips below.

• Pull Aside & Stay Alive: If you encounter a dust storm, immediately check traffic around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down. Once you know it’s safe around you proceed to pull off the road or off to the side and stop your vehicle until the storm passes.

• Avoid driving near or through washes and low areas that are surrounded by hills or mountains. Areas like this are prone to flash flooding and at anytime can wash both you and your vehicle away.

• If your’re outside when the storm hits cover your nose & mouth to avoid inhaling potentially harmful dust, pollen, and other pollutants that could be carried by the wind.

• Take a moment to do a walk around inspection of your home and bring in any lawn furniture such as umbrellas & chairs, tarps, or other personal property that could be blown away and damaged during the storm.

• Bring your animals inside or provide them with shelter to avoid the storm and potential risk of valley fever. Every animal lover knows vet bills are expensive and no fun for the owner or pet.

Prepare a disaster supply kit just in case things take a turn for the worst:

• 3-5 gallons of clean drinking water for each person and pet.
• A stock of food that requires no cooking or refrigeration. If you have canned food you would like to heat up we also suggest a small propane camp stove, extra propane, and matches.
• Portable and working battery-operated radio, flashlights, and extra batteries
• First aid kit (Be sure to check your kit periodically to ensure you have ample amounts of supplies and check the expiration date on all anti-bacterial ointments, sprays, and pain medication.)
• Necessary medications for any household member including your animals.