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| SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | FEBRUARY 2025 | 5 Are you ready? "Ready for what?" you ask? Ready for the "What IF?" Sun Lakes' EPAP seems to repeat over and over "are you ready?" and you say "sure." "I have my go bag packed. I have my medication in order, and I have my emergency information listed." "So, I'm ready … right?" But wait! Are you sure? Have you changed out the clothing in your "go bag" for cold and wet weather? Have you rotated your medication? Have you updated your emergency information? What if you have shorts and f lip f lops in your "go bag?" What if your doctor changed or prescribed new medication or you stopped taking one. What if you changed your health care insurance or what if your emergency contacts have moved or are no longer around? Here we go again with the "what ifs?" To make sure you are prepared, these are the things which should be done at least every three to four months. It is so easy to forget we even have a go bag when we haven't had to use it. We have been very lucky that we haven't had a life-affecting event in the past year. But this doesn't mean we shouldn't be prepared. Being prepared for the "what if " is a very important part of life. So, let's review a few of the most important. • Secure furniture to the wall to avoid them tipping over. • A fire extinguisher and first-aid kit, readily available. • An Evacuation Plan. Where to go and where to meet. • Household Supply Barrel with at least two weeks of supplies. • A "go bag" with essential items to get you through at least seven days away from home. Make sure it is packed with seasonal provisions and where it can be grabbed and easy to carry, in case you have to go on foot. • Medication, including over-the-counter and prescriptions, for at least two weeks. Don't forget your pets. • Flashlights and/or battery powered or rechargeable lanterns, cell phones, cell phone charging stations (that do not need to be plugs in), and extra batteries. • Updated "File of Life," emergency contact information, and a list of all medication with dosage instructions. Make sure to include Securitas and Administration with your updated information. • Copies of important papers/document (driver's license, SSN, health, home, and life insurance policies, mortgage documents…) • Cash! Small bills. At least $50 to $100. Remember … Being prepared WILL Save Your Life! Sun Lakes EPAP is excited to introduce new programs in 2025. Keep updated and informed on all Emergency Preparedness current events, programs, and training by visiting Sun Lakes EPAP Facebook Group, the EPAP website at www.sunlakescc.com (scroll right to community, down to EPAP), and the information screen in the Main Clubhouse Lobby. If you would like more information on becoming an EPAP Volunteer, please contact The EPAP Team at (951) 524-3126. ~ Janis Rice, EPAP PIO EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS What IF?!? EPAP 101: Need To Know Thurs., Feb. 13, 2 - 4 pm • Main Clubhouse Multipurpose Room Presenter - Valerie Almanza, Emergency Services Coordinator

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