New Year Preparedness Tips for 2025

As we step into 2025, it's essential to start the year on the right foot by ensuring that you and your loved ones are prepared for any unexpected events. From updating emergency plans to checking your emergency kits, these New Year Preparedness Tips for 2025 will help you stay ready and resilient throughout the year. Taking the time to review these tips can make all the difference in keeping your household and community safe and secure. Let's work together to make 2025 a year of readiness and peace of mind!

1. Review and Update Your Emergency Plan

• Ensure contact information for family, neighbors, and emergency contacts is up to date.
• Review and practice evacuation routes and reunification plans.
• Include your pets and livestock in your emergency plan.

2. Replenish and Check Your Emergency Kits

• Ensure you have a 2-week supply of non-perishable food, water, and medical supplies.
• Check expiration dates on batteries, food, and medications.
• Don’t forget essentials for children, pets, and people with access and functional needs.

3. Sign Up for Emergency Alerts

• Text “B2WR” to your OR-Alert system for monthly preparedness tips.
• Follow your local emergency management and community alert systems on social media.

4. Winter Weather Preparations

• Prepare your home and vehicle for cold weather (add extra blankets, snow chains, ice scrapers).
• Keep an emergency kit in your car with essentials like water, snacks, jumper cables, and a flashlight.
• Be cautious of carbon monoxide risks; never use grills, generators, or stoves indoors.

5. Back-Up Your Important Documents

• Store important documents like insurance policies, IDs, and medical records in a waterproof, portable container.
• Create digital copies and store them securely online or on a password-protected USB drive.

6. Health and Safety Checks

• Schedule annual health check-ups for everyone in the household.
• Review first aid kits and take a CPR or first aid refresher course.

7. Strengthen Your Community Connections

• Get involved in your neighborhood's community preparedness programs.
• Consider joining CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) or similar volunteer groups.
• Encourage friends and neighbors to prepare and check on vulnerable community members.

8. Emergency Financial Preparedness

• Build an emergency savings fund for unexpected expenses.
• Review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for potential risks.

9. New Year’s Resolutions for Preparedness

• Set monthly goals, like organizing supplies, practicing emergency drills, and creating go-bags for each family member.
• Make preparing fun—schedule family nights to practice emergency scenarios.

10. Stay Informed and Engaged

• Follow local, state, and federal organizations for updates, including the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.
• Be mindful of any new public safety protocols and participate in emergency preparedness events like the Great Oregon Camp-In.

Starting the new year with preparedness strengthens your household and your community! What preparedness goal would you like to work on this year?