Emergency Preparedness
September was National Disaster Preparedness Month, but FEMA is still trying to keep disaster preparedness top of mind to help keep families safe. Their goal is to raise awareness among the average American to be prepared for disasters of all types.
Whether it’s an earthquake, mud slide, hurricane or power outage from a severe thunderstorm, disasters can happen at any time and every family should be prepared.
Create a household disaster kit in an easily accessible location. Put contents in a large, watertight container that is always accessible and easily moved, such as a plastic garbage can with a lid and wheels.
What do you need to pack in an emergency kit for your family? To be better prepared for when disaster may strike here is the “must haves” checklist.
A Household Disaster Supply Kit should contain the following:
- Water – at least one gallon per person for three to seven days
- Food – at least enough for three to seven days: non-perishable packaged or canned food; juices; foods for infants or the elderly; snack food; non-electric can opener; cooking utensils; fuel; paper plates and plastic utensils
- Maps
- Blankets and pillows
- Clothing – seasonal, rain gear, sturdy shoes
- Medical supplies – first aid kit, medicines, prescription drugs, a spare set of eye glasses
- Special Items – for infants and the elderly
- Toiletries – toilet paper, hygiene items and plastic bags for sanitary disposal,
- Sanitizers – Moisture wipes, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer and soap
- Flashlight – extra batteries
- Radio – battery-operated and NOAA weather radio
- Cash – (Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods.)
- Important documents – in a waterproof container: insurance, medical records, bank and credit card account numbers, birth certificates, social security card
- Keys
- Toys, books and games
- Tools
- Pet care items – proper identification, immunization records, ample supply of food and water, a carrier or cage, medications, muzzle and leash
In case or disaster or emergency, the ability to start a fire could be the difference between life and death. An Emergency Fire Starter Kit (a very cool gadget for getting a fire going without matches or a lighter) is a good waterproof addition to your kit. This and other products such as a Cedar Fire Starter and a Hand Warmer are available at zippooutdoor.com
Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. For more information visit www.fema.org
