As Lahontan Valley residents continue to prepare for the possibility of flood waters, some advanced safety planning for residents and businesses located in high-flowing water events may be needed. Here are some things to consider, depending on your situation.
Sales Specialist Matt Zmerzlikar, from Fallon’s Big R Store located at 3325 Reno Hwy., was eager to assist with suggestions that one might consider before flood waters hit any area. With over 33 years of experience, working as a first responder in isolated forests and rugged terrain, Zmerzlikar shared specific items to have available as a first line of defense.
“I always recommend addressing the ‘what if’ before it happens and secondly, individuals should mentally walk through their personal daily requirements, so preparations are in place within a moment’s notice.” Zmerzlikar’s mindset mirrored the famous saying, “Plan ahead or you plan to fail,” due to the past experiences he has witnessed.
Zmerzlikar suggested thinking practical, as some items are considered vital in an emergency. A proper ice cooler and dry, closed containers are needed for medications, food, first aid items, bug repellents, blankets, fresh batteries, proper flashlights, a crank radio, and even a solar kit to charge things, should the electricity go out. Fresh water storage containers would need to be filled in advance for drinking and cleaning sources. Once organized, items should always be kept in a safe, convenient spot for quick access.
Another aspect would be protective apparel. Avoid dark, or bright-colored clothing as flying insects are attracted to these tones, but tend to ignore white, blue, green, and purple clothing. Sturdy gloves, a netted head covering to avoid exposure to excessive bugs and quality rubber boots allow you to walk through standing water, if necessary. Having a basic tool kit available and a fold-up shovel would allow moving aside debris if evacuating a structure in messy, flood waters. Safely transporting pets is a consideration, so having proper crates, pet-food containers, leashes, and pet calming meds available in a dry container would be helpful. Also properly secure any firearms, keys, and valuables in advance.
Lastly, this Big R expert discussed the unfortunate possibility of an alternate shelter being required in some severe, isolated locations. Zmerzlikar explained that within any catastrophe event, a delay in receiving rescue or immediate assistance can be interrupted when extreme key points are affected. Additional items needed to survive this extreme situation could include tarps, ropes, fixed blade knives, cook stoves, proper fuel for transportation or generators, lighters, flares, axes, and dry camping items, also requiring dry containers. It is also best to have a safe container for any copies of ID, important papers, insurance information, and contact numbers, should a severe displacement occur.
Zmerzlikar stressed that being under-prepared for a possible disaster can be more of a disaster than the disaster itself. “Remain calm, use logic, and be safe. Look around at your personal risks and your surroundings. If you can safely secure loose items that could float away, do so before the risk ever arrives. Minimizing added risks in advance can help you, your family and your neighbors should any outside help be required.”
Throughout this season of possible flood concerns, Zmerzlikar and Safety Program Manager, Rich Martin, stressed that the associates at Big R will be happy to answer any questions or make useful suggestions that are most helpful to your individual needs.
With so many residents in the valley raising livestock and large animals, Cheri Giovanetti at Cheri’s Feed and Seed, located at 5353 Reno Hwy., discussed the vulnerability that flooded fields can bring, with increased pest infections, hoof-rot, and fungal issues, especially with grazing animals left in standing water. Her Feed and Seed store carries various products to counter these problems and has a variety of small animal feed products that could be dry stored in advance. When moving animals to higher ground or dry livestock yards, there are several calming health aids also available, such as Pro-Earth Zesterra, which neutralizes acid in times of stress, while encouraging proper eating and drinking in horses.
“With a possible uptake in flies and ticks this year, I carry easy-to-use, dust-control products and other repellents specific to the animals someone may be raising or caring for. Since many landowners have already accommodated taking spread water, some are finding that the water table is high and the aquifers are full, so standing water is not just a concern for bugs, it’s also a concern for hay getting wet and moldy, or our local alfalfa becoming too wet to cut this year. It’s clear that public discussions should continue to alert everyone, so our valley animals are not suffering amid the excess water concerns.”
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