Gearhart will celebrate the grand opening of a community emergency container program on Aug. 23.

Originally scheduled for April, the program’s first of two access dates had to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Residents are invited to participate by purchasing their own 30-gallon plastic emergency supply storage drum for storage of emergency supplies. The city offers barrels for sale for $70.

Bring the stocked barrel to the fire department on Aug. 23 between 10 a.m. to noon for storage and and membership agreement. The $40 annual storage cost is due at drop-off.

Suggested storage items include tents or tarps, sleeping bags, water storage containers, warm clothing, first-aid kit, sanitation supplies, batteries and cookware. Kerosene and gasoline, along with other hazardous materials, are not permitted.

Residents will own the containers and contents. Staff will have access and be able to pull people’s barrels twice a year to allow changes, one time in April and once in October.

Call 503-738-5501 to reserve a spot.