September is National Preparedness Month – Are You “2 Weeks Ready”?
- August 31, 2025 | Category: Customer Service, Your Water
National Preparedness Month is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. If the emergencies that have impacted our community, state, and nation over the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that being prepared can make a big difference.
How long do you need to be prepared to be self-sufficient?
While the traditional three days of supplies is a good start and helpful for short-term power outages or a temporary evacuation, experts recommend that Oregon citizens proactively prepare to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks after a disaster, known as “2 Weeks Ready”. This is because first responders may not be able to reach everyone impacted within hours or even days afterward, especially in the event of a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake (which is considered overdue). Utilities may be out during this time as well.
How do you prepare to be “2 Weeks Ready”?
To be 2 Weeks Ready, you’ll need to have an emergency plan and build a kit with enough supplies—including water—to allow you and your family to survive on your own for two weeks. It may seem overwhelming, but you’re probably more prepared than you think! For helpful resources to help you make a plan and build a kit, go to our Emergency Preparedness page. To determine how much water your family might need, see the helpful information below.
Another preparation we recommend is to familiarize yourself with the location of your water meter and its shut-off valve so that you can turn your water off in case of an emergency such as a broken pipe. Water meters and shut-off valves are located in concrete boxes and usually found at the property line either in front of or behind the residence; you may have a valve next to your meter that can be turned by hand, or a tool may be needed. Go to our Your Meter page for help on using your shut-off valve. If you need help verifying where your meter is located and what type of valve you have, call us at 541-774-2430.
How much water you need to be 2 Weeks Ready depends on several factors:
Each person will need water each day for drinking, meal preparation and cleanup, and hygiene. The amount of water you’ll need will be impacted by the foods you plan to eat and if your family includes people with special needs and pets; a good starting point is one gallon per person per day. Track how much family members and pets use in a day and store that amount.