This is Red Five’s tenth weekly report detailing proactive steps you, your family, or your company can take to be prepared for the week ahead. This report represents work product derived from various reliable sources, and contains the most accurate information available at the time of print. However, it may be based in part upon information provided by third party sources, which may be subject to change at any time.
It is highly unlikely that the United States will vanquish COVID-19 this summer—the “new normal” that we have adapted to will continue to be a persistent part of our lives in the months ahead. Staying safe, having a plan, and being prepared will be critical in the months ahead. In addition to COVID-19, we will have to face the usual hazards associated with summer across the United States—hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, brown outs, and wildfires. Don’t let the slow pace of COVID fog your mindset about these other likely summertime concerns.
- Seventy-seven nations have seen a growth in COVID-19 cases over the past two weeks, and the United States still posts some of the highest numbers, according to an 18 June New York Times article.
We recommend you take the following steps to be prepared for the summer months.
- Adjust your mindset about the other hazards. Hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, etc. develop quickly. Increase your awareness as you may be required to make fast decisions, get to shelter quickly, or move out of harm’s way.
- Double check your supplies. Ensure you have enough food, water, and medication to stay at home for 14 days in case you or a family member becomes ill, or in case you have to shelter in place due to a weather-related event. (Please refer back to our first COVID update for a list of recommended items.)
- Check in with your neighbors and community. There may be new support services or plans in place that have evolved out of COVID.
- Double check the supplies of family members who may not be close by. All family members should be able to self-sustain for 14 days; this is especially important for children who live away from home and the elderly. Help them order supplies from an online retailer if they do not have enough supplies.
- Know before you go. Increase your awareness by researching destinations prior to departing. If you plan to travel, know what, if any, quarantine measures are required at your destination, the current conditions, and what, if any restrictions are in place.
- Don’t forget pets when making a plan. Include them in your evacuation and shelter-in-place plans. Ensure you have enough pet food to stay at home for 14 days. The same goes for pet medications.
- Set aside time for you and your family’s wellbeing. Make time to recharge, exercise, get outside, relax and improve your mental and emotional fitness.
