Emergency essentials:

COLFAX – As concerns for being quarantined sweeps across the county, grocery stores in the area are finding shelves, which used to be stocked with toilet paper, pasta, canned foods, etcetera, swept bare.

Whitman County Emergency Management Director Bill Tensfeld said since there has been some lead time, people have had the time to go shopping all at once and that many people are out buying for three to four weeks when it should be for roughly two weeks.

"It's going to take a few weeks for the supply chain to catch up to the demand," Tensfeld said. "It's a couple of weeks, it's going to give the grocery stores time to restock its shelves."

The Whitman County Emergency Management Department has been encouraging residents to have a two week supply on hand, just in case of an emergency. Suggestions for these kits includes personal hygiene items, non-perishable food, first aid kit, pet supplies, cash, toilet paper, etc.

"People shouldn't be hoarding," Tensfeld said. "Like we are seeing, people shouldn't be buying 10 cases of toilet paper, one case would probably be sufficient. If we are totally reliant on the grocery stores, it's just going to be that much more of a burden on the supply chain."

Tensfeld also suggested residents have any required prescriptions on hand or make plans to pick them up or delivered by mail because some pharmacies might be closed or have limited operating hours during this time.

The county Emergency Management Department recommends residents to develop a communication plan, whether it be for quarantine circumstances or natural disasters. It is suggested to have emergency contact information written down and to have a cell phone charger on hand.

While the coronavirus is encouraging social distancing, it is important to be informed on how to help the people and pets that may rely on you.

The Washington Department of Health recommends protecting yourself and those around you. This includes washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth, avoid close contact with others and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

"We live in a rural area. You got to be prepared to live on your own for a little bit," Tensfeld said. "If something were to happen, the resources are primarily going to Spokane or Seattle, the more populated areas."