Image Up Advertising & Design

12 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | JUNE 2022 | "GO BAG" for EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Natural catastrophes play out on TV every day, including earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, and the infamous wildfires in California. They remind us that disaster can strike at any time, so here's a tip from EPAP that everyone needs to know: how to pack a "go bag." A "go bag" is a packed case that you can grab on your way out the door. It contains important items that will help keep you safe and comfortable in the hours and days following a catastrophic event. Having to hunt for your medications or other important needs can cost you critical seconds in an evacuation. Experts recommend that you pack a separate bag for every member of your household, and keep them stored in the same location. A small backpack is ideal for the bag, but a lightweight suitcase with wheels will also do. Remember, you may literally be running with it. You'll need a long-lasting LED flashlight, and a small hand- cranked or battery-operated AM/FM radio (with extra batteries) if you can. Don't forget an extra phone charger in case you're fortunate enough to have electricity, and a portable solar-powered battery pack in case you're not. For your personal needs, buy travel-size versions of the toiletries you use every day, and include back-up eyeglasses, a first- aid kit, baby wipes, and a multipurpose tool with a knife and a can opener. You'll need a few day's worth of clothing, and waterproof shoes or boots. Don't forget your daily medications (enough for about three days), in case you can't get to a pharmacy for awhile. Remember to bring any portable devices that you need every day. Fill a zip-top waterproof bag with photocopies of as many of these as you can: birth certificate; driver license; Social Security and Medicare cards; power of attorney; will and/or trust; marriage, adoption, or naturalization certificates; proof of address; insurance and medical records; and information about your credit and ATM cards. Bottled water is essential, as are energy bars and drinks, plus money — enough for several days. Be sure to include small bills and a roll of quarters. If you need to buy something out of a vending machine, you don't want to start asking equally desperate strangers for change. Remember that old motto — "be prepared." You can literally save your own life. That's what EPAP stands for. For more information about emergency preparedness, contact your District's EPAP Coordinator or call EPAP at (951) 524-3126. Thank Goodness I'm grateful to Gerry Fawcett, Sun Lakes resident who recalled the past which is fading, along with urging pride in our America. Thank you. ~ Lucie Ramsey Thank you to the English Tea volunteers for the great tea they put on. Everything was just terrific! ~ Anonymous Thank you to Riverside County for coming to Sun Lakes and testing our residents and non-residents. ~ Anonymous I am grateful for the many nice, friendly, and helpful employees who work here at Sun Lakes. Our paradise is better with their assistance and involvement. ~ Anonymous I'm thankful for Sun Lakes Chorale. People who love music get to sing together and share concerts with our community. It's fun to blend our voices with friends to create something beautiful. ~ Susan Street I have been a resident of Sun Lakes for 21 years and a widow for six years. Many kind and thoughtful residents have helped me through the years. From personal experience, two outstanding Sun Lakes people who made a difference are Marsha Midgett, past Master Board President, and Sue Howie, a past District 9 Delegate. I have witnessed their countless hours on every possible Sun Lakes project. Both of them have come to my aid during health problems. Thankful and grateful, Lola Hibbs If you have seen an act of kindness or have been on the receiving end, please share your experience with the community. Let's spread gratitude! Go to the Main Clubhouse Lobby and drop your note in the box labeled "Thankful and Grateful" or email sunlakesnews@yahoo.com and write "Gratitude" in the subject line. Expreing Gratitude

• Cover