Last Updated on March 22, 2026 by Brenda

Listen to the Podcast Here: Emergency Preparedness

By: Health IQ Podcast Team

You never know when disaster will strike. In Quay County, our community faces a diverse set of risks, from severe windstorms and winter weather to wildfires, hazmat incidents on I-40, and even frequent tornado warnings (Quay County is number two in New Mexico!). That’s why preparedness isn’t just a good idea—it’s an essential part of your family’s health and safety plan.

In our latest Health IQ Podcast episode, host Brenda Bishop sat down with Quay County Emergency Manager, Bill Kardokus, to discuss the vital steps every resident should take now to prepare for an evacuation or a “shelter-in-place” order.

Your Most Critical Tool: The 72-Hour Go-Bag

If an emergency forces you to evacuate, first responders may not be able to reach you for up to 72 hours. Your Go-Bag is your survival kit for that period.

What must be in your Go-Bag (for every person and pet):

• Food & Water: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and fresh water. Tip: Bill suggests using frozen water bottles in your freezer—they act as ice packs and provide drinking water later!
• Essential Papers: Keep copies of your critical documents in a waterproof container. Think insurance policies, birth certificates, Social Security cards, and important passwords.
• Meds & Gear: Prescription medications, a first-aid kit, and a change of clothes. Don’t forget a reliable light source, like a wind-up flashlight!
• Pet Plan: A separate bag for pets with food, water, vaccination records, and—crucially—a photo of you with your pet in case you are separated.
• Entertainment: Pack a deck of cards or a book—shelters can be long and boring!

Remember to check and refresh your Go-Bag every six months!

Stay Informed: Know Your Alerts

Being prepared also means understanding how you’ll be notified:

• Nixle: Sign up on the County’s website (County gov) for general, needed-to-know information like power shutoff warnings and non-urgent weather alerts.
• I-Pass (Amber Alert System): This system is reserved for urgent situations, like a mandatory evacuation or a tornado on the ground. When you get one of these alerts, take immediate action—it means business!

Don’t Wait for the Siren

Mr. Kardokus emphasizes that preparation is year-round. This includes creating a defensible space of at least 30 feet around your home to protect against fire and being ready to shelter in place quickly in case of a hazmat spill.

Listen to the full episode of Health IQ Podcast for a comprehensive checklist and specific details on how to protect your family from Quay County’s most common threats!