You never know when a disaster or an emergency might strike. In that crisis moment, your preparedness and training—with your family and neighbors—might save your life and home.
Bill and I have been teaching disaster and neighborhood readiness for five years as a way to build connected, caring, and resilient neighborhoods. All our training was put to the test on January 4th, 2023, when a power surge ignited an electrical fire in our basement, threatening our lives and property.
We survived and saved our home because of our training and the support of our neighbors. I’m writing this blog to pass along lessons we learned, including what skills and preparation counted the most during this emergency. My hope is that you might learn from our experience and take steps to get prepared, to protect yourself and family, today. This could happen to you. Be ready for it!

​​Every moment counts in a medical emergency. Make sure first responders have critical information about your kids, even if you aren't there. Take advantage of a free, confidential service, sponsored by OHSU. 
HERO Kids Registry is a voluntary, no-cost system that lets any Oregon family share critical information about their child’s health before an emergency. The information can be quickly accessed by emergency medical services (EMS) and hospital emergency department (ED) providers, so they have the information they need when they need it. 
​By registering with HERO Kids, you give EMS and ED providers a head start on understanding your child's medical history, unique needs and individualized supports. For example, it helps emergency responders to know if a young patient is non-verbal.
HERO Kids is for any Oregon child or young adult (through age 26). It is especially useful for young people with complicated or chronic health conditions, and for those who experience developmental disabilities or mental health conditions. Learn more and register your kids at the OHSU Hero Kids Registry.