Preparing today for a stronger tomorrow: Is your emergency go bag ready?

As hurricane season continues, Black River United Way (BRUW) is urging all local residents to take action now to ensure their families are prepared for potential emergencies.

At Black River United Way, the guiding belief is that strong, resilient communities are built through proactive preparation—whether that is preparing a young child to thrive in their first kindergarten classroom or preparing a family to face a major storm. 

BRUW CEO Yolanda McCray

“While a kindergarten classroom and a hurricane preparedness plan may seem worlds apart, both are rooted in the same idea: preparation today creates a stronger tomorrow,” explained Yolanda McCray, President & CEO of Black River United Way in a recent communication to supporters.

To help safeguard local neighborhoods, BRUW is actively partnering with the Winyah Bay COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disasters) and other local partners to ensure that families, organizations, and residents across Georgetown and Williamsburg Counties have the tools and resources they need to respond effectively when emergencies arise.

3 Critical Steps to Take This Month

Don’t wait for a storm to be on the radar. Residents are highly encouraged to take these three steps to protect their households:

• Review Your Emergency Plans: Sit down with your family and establish a clear evacuation route, meeting spot, and communication plan.

• Update Your Supplies: Make sure you have adequate non-perishable food, fresh water, and medical essentials ready to go.

• Pack a “Go Bag”: A Go Bag is a collection of essential items you can grab quickly in case of an emergency evacuation.

Your Go Bag should be set aside specifically for emergencies and packed with enough supplies to last each member of your household for at least 3 days. Ensure yours includes the following essentials:

• Food & Water: A three-day supply of clean water and non-perishable food.

• First Aid Kit: Essential bandages, medications, and medical tools.

• Flashlight & Whistle: Vital for visibility and signaling for help.

• Important Documents: Identification, insurance cards, financial records, and contact lists secured in a waterproof container.

• Specialty Items: Don’t forget to pack infant supplies (like formula and diapers) or pet food if you have young children or animals in your care.

By taking these small steps today, we can build a safer, more resilient community where every family is prepared to weather whatever challenges come our way.

For more information on disaster resiliency and how to get involved, please visit the Black River United Way’s website – https://www.blackriveruw.org/.