On Saturday, my wife and I went to comedy show and the stand up comic made the joke that “boy, when summer ends, it really ends.”

But all joking aside, the storm was a good reminder that these types of events typically come out of nowhere and Kirkland residents should make sure to have provisions for unforeseen weather or natural disaster situations.

Despite the reports in the media, many people were caught off guard by the wind storm, probably because it was preceded by four months of sun and dry conditions. Nevertheless, being prepared for these types of evens can relieve stress.

Everyone should have flashlights with batteries that work, a first aid kit and canned food and bottled water to last a few days.

Make sure you know your neighbors before these types of emergencies hit our area. Get to know those in your neighborhood who could be the most at risk and need help in an emergency situation. It may not be you who needs the help.

Matt Phelps is regional editor of the Kirkland and Bothell/Kenmore Reporter newspapers.