Kiowa County Division of Emergency Management
Elaine Lindholm, Director
1305 Goff Street
Eads, CO 80136
719-438-2288

MEDIA RELEASE – For Immediate Release

January 11, 2007

For more information contact
Kiowa County Division of Emergency Management
Chris Sorensen, Public Information Officer
719-688-1976 (cell, not for public release) or chris@kiowaoem.com

RESIDENTS ENCOURAGED TO CHECK AND RESTOCK SUPPLIES

   (EADS, COLORADO) With the southeast corner of Colorado once again under a Winter Storm Watch as of Thursday morning, the Kiowa County Division of Emergency Management is again encouraging residents to check their emergency supplies and restock needed items.
   According to Elaine Lindholm, KCDEM Director, citizens should ensure they have at least one gallon of water per person, per day on hand as well as a supply of non-perishable food items in containers that can be opened without electricity or with a hand-operated can opener. Families with infants may want to add a few extra days’ supply of diapers, formula and other child care items.
   Other supplies that should be checked include medications, flashlights and batteries, pet care items, and items to keep children entertained. Residents should also fill the fuel tanks of their vehicles.
   “During this time of year it is difficult to predict how severe a storm will be, but the latest information suggests we’ll be facing several days of temperatures of 15 degrees or lower and snow or freezing rain,” said Lindholm. “Stocking up in advance on essential items helps ensure our citizens’ safety and self-sufficiency while allowing our emergency responders to take care of the most urgent needs during a crisis. More extensive preparedness information is available on our web sites, www.kiowaoem.com and www.seregion.com”
   Residents will also want to consider having backup heating sources available in case of a power outage, but should be careful to ensure proper ventilation in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
   “As we have seen over the past few weeks, travel can be difficult or impossible for several days during a storm, and many stores might be unable to open. Additionally, there can be delays in stores restocking items if highways close, which blocks warehouse deliveries. Planning ahead makes it much easier for everyone to weather the storm,” concludes Lindholm.
   Residents are also reminded that, while many roads have been partially cleared following the three recent storms, there are still many icy areas, so continue to use caution while driving or walking.
   
   General information about emergency services is available from the Kiowa County Division of Emergency Management, 719-438-2288, or the Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office, 719-438-5411. For immediate emergencies, dial 911.
#30#
Released 2007-01-11 0939  – Initial release – Also available electronically at www.kiowaoem.com