(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County Emergency Management is halfway through its 6 Weeks Ready campaign to help residents prepare for a natural or man-made disaster. 

After sharing some basic planning and preparation guidance in the first three weeks, Week 4 focuses on emergency food and water storage.  

“You need a 6-week emergency food plan if you live in a rural Oregon coast community,” said Clatsop County Emergency Management Community Engagement Coordinator Jen Munson. “These areas often face severe weather that can disrupt supplies for a long time, and roads can get damaged, making it hard to get help.” 

“Having enough food for 6 weeks allows families to be self-sufficient and provides peace of mind during emergencies,” she added. “Plus, buying in bulk can save money and help you prepare for unexpected situations.” 

If you'd rather make quick work of this task with a ready-made shopping list or pre-packaged emergency food kits, there are many options online and in the community. FEMA and the Red Cross also developed a guide of items you’ll need and storage tips. 

Clatsop County’s 6-Weeks Ready campaign provides residents and businesses with an opportunity to increase preparedness efforts such as these.  

Week 1: Sept. 4  Building a Kit 

Week 2: Sept. 11  Disaster Planning with Everyone in Mind 

Week 3: Sept. 18  Protecting your Family & Property in a Disaster 

Week 4: Sept. 25   Food & Water in an Emergency  

              Sept. 28 Get Ready Clatsop County Preparedness Event 

Week 5: Oct. 2   Tsunami Evacuation 

Week 6: Oct. 9  Earthquake Safety  

The campaign ends Thursday, Oct. 17, the day of the Great ShakeOut. “We encourage everyone to register online to participate,” Munson said.  

Personal preparedness and other emergency preparedness information can be found at Get 6 WEEKS READY Clatsop County. 

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