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17 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | February 2016 | February Tip of the Month: If you haven't already done so, please review last month's article. Realizing that the holiday season is full of distractions you may not have seriously considered the recommendations. Starting the new year, it is a good idea to review your emergency pantry items, looking for expired items and updating any new items. Also, this is a good time to recycle your stored water. You can pour the used water on various plants and refill with fresh water. Also, consider having some distilled water on hand. It's a good idea to check your hot water heater drain valve to ensure that you can open it, and that it doesn't leak. Water purification devices and chemicals (an unscented liquid bleach would work) are also important--you can survive for a lot longer without food, than being without water. Because this is an El Niño year, it is a good idea to check your rain gutters and drains for obstructions, and visually check your roof tiles to make sure none are cracked or broken. The last thing you need is a roof leak this new year. If you have landscaping that relies on drains to carry away water from your backyard, be sure that they are not blocked or clogged. When we have heavy rains remember to be careful around rushing water, whether on foot or in your car. You may or may not be aware of our street captains program. It is an organization that is dedicated to serving their fellow neighbors by providing them with information pertinent to personal and community safety. We have over 90 members and we are continually inviting others to join us. Please consider becoming a street captain for your block, or area. Please check the Four Seasons' calendar for meeting days and times (generally the last Monday of the month at 6:30 pm in the Ballroom). If you are not sure whether or not this is something you would like to participate in, please attend one and peer over the fence to see what it could mean for you. This won't involve a large commitment of time, but will provide valuable service to you and your neighbors. In that vein, we want to encourage anyone with a marketing/recruiting background to join us in establishing a program to achieve an even greater level of participation in community emergency preparedness. Emergency Preparedness Committee