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This and subsequent pages contain information for our community members, including commissioner meeting agendas and minutes, emergency preparedness, geologic hazards, burn permit information, other services and other information.

Floods have isolated some of our residents for over 24 hours and windstorms have caused others to be without power for over a week. Due to our rural location, we might be last on the list to receive federal or state assistance in the event of an emergency. We would like to encourage our residents to be prepared for such emergencies. For a list of supplies you might need in an emergency kit, go to ready.gov. Here are some tips:

• Create an emergency communication plan. Often local phone lines are diverted and only long distance calls can be made. An out of state contact is encouraged.
• Establish a meeting place away from your home. Be aware of your local school's emergency plans.
• Learn basic first aid and CPR techniques. Check with our fire department for class times and availability.
• Assemble an emergency supply kit. This kit should be portable, easily accessible from outside your home, and contain enough supplies for a week.

• Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least a week, for drinking and sanitation.
• Food - at least a week's supply of non-perishable food.
• Battery - powered or hand crank radio and a Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• First Aid kit.
• Whistle to signal for help.
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
• Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).
• Local maps.

• Prescription medication and glasses.
• Infant formula and diapers.
• Pet food and extra water for your pet.
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof container.
• Cash or travelers checks.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person, consider additional bedding for cold-weather climate.
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper for sanitation and drinking water.
• Fire extinguisher.
• Matches in a waterproof container.
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels.
• Paper and pencil.
• Books, games, puzzles or other activites for children.

• Before:
• Know your community's warning system, disaster plans, and evacuation routes.
• Stay informed of extreme weather conditions, especially in winter.
• Know how and where to shut off your power, gas and water valves.
• Store emergency kits in an easily accessible location.
• During:
• Follow orders for evacuation routes.
• Drive only when advised or necessary.
• Help neighbors or others who may need assistance.
• Call someone, if time allows, to let them know your plan.
• After:
• Do not return home until authorities say it is safe to do so.
• Be careful when entering buildings or homes that may have structural damage.
• Service damaged appliances or septic systems.
• Supervise children at all times until you know the surroundings are safe.
• Use common sense.
• Clean up debris and disinfect where necessary.
• Check for gas leaks.
• Open cabinets and doors cautiously.

Christ's Church in Elbe hosts a Bread Ministry every Tuesday from 12 pm to 2 pm. On occasion, canned goods, juices, milk and cheese products are also available during this time. There is no charge and everyone is welcome.

The Community Food Bank, called "Hansfuls on Purpose" is held by appointment at Faith Baptist Church, 28514 State Route 706 East in Ashford, WA. It is designed to meet the physical needs of those in our local community who are going through difficult times.

If you would like to donate food to the food bank, please contact Faith Baptist Church.

For more information regarding the food bank, please call Faith Baptist Church at 360-569-0902 to schedule an appointment or to have any questions answered.

Note:
Pastor Joe Koehler is available night and day if anyone in the community needs to reach him. The number at the Church is (360) 569-0902 and his cell phone number is (253) 686-5742.