Emergency preparedness checklists

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Emergency responders in Springfield have already had two planning meetings to make sure all departments are on the same page before any severe weather hits.

As they review their plans, you should too. Western Massachusetts has seen more than its fair share of severe weather over the past year and a half, so the city's emergency preparedness director Robert Hassett told 22news go over your checklists and plans that should already be in place.

According to Hassett, “I think everybody pretty much knows what they need but we want them to go through their family plan to make sure their family plan is in shape.”

22news is working for you with what you will need in the event of a power outage:

•  Make sure you’ve got enough batteries for flashlights
•  Remember electric lanterns are safer than candles
•  Have plenty of food that's easy to prepare in case you lose power
•  Stock up on any medications you need
•  If there are storm drains in front of your house, clear the leaves to prevent street flooding

The Red Cross and Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency recommend you have an emergency kit on hand that includes:

• Batteries
• Flashlight
• First Aid Kit
• Weather Radio
• Extra Blankets

Also, keep your gas tank full and have cash on hand just in case.