Some believe that one of the benefits of living in Southern Ohio is that we have the opportunity to experience four seasons each year and everyone seems to have their favorite.

Along with the changing seasons comes the changing of the weather that requires us to “be prepared” for what comes.

Each season brings its “signature” weather…in winter it is the ice and snow; the summer brings extreme heat; while spring and autumn shower us with rains and flooding.

Being prepared doesn’t mean just having the snow shovel ready or the fan for hot weather.

We regularly experience weather events that call for us to evacuate our home or to take “shelter in place” (in other words, “staying put”).

Man-made emergencies such as power outages and chemical spills may also require us to take some type of action in order to be safe.

Many organizations, such as the American Red Cross, offer excellent suggestions to be ready.

One way to be proactive is to have important phone numbers and contact information close to your phone or on your refrigerator such as your utility company, medical equipment vendors, and at least two people you can call who have agreed to help you in an emergency.

In the simplest terms, we can divide emergencies into two categories: first are those where we can stay or must stay in our own home; the second are those where we must leave our home.

One of the best ways to “be prepared” for either action is to have a bag or kit at home to take with you when you go to a shelter in the community or a family member or friend’s home.

The kit comes in handy so that you do not run out of critical items during weather or other emergencies.

You can use a child backpack, small duffle bag, or even a big shopping bag.

Make sure the bag has your identification information on it and include these suggested items: first–aid kit; prescription medicines, along with a list of medications with dosages and a list of allergies; extra eyeglasses and hearing aid batteries; medical insurance and Medicare cards (copies); a list of doctors and a relative or friend who should be notified if you are injured; battery-powered radio and flashlight with extra batteries for each; a change of clothing; blanket; extra set of keys; small amount of cash; and personal hygiene supplies.

Remember to store water (one gallon per day per person) and a non-perishable food supply with a manual can opener for times when you must “shelter in place.”

Listening to the warnings from local emergency officials and following their instructions is critical.

Emergencies are unpredictable, but you can weather them better if you are prepared.

For more information about Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, go to the Area Agency on Aging District 7’s website at www.aaa7.org.

Pamela K. Matura is executive director of the Area Agency on Aging District 7.