Did you know that September is National Preparedness Month? This month is officially designated, but the US government to promote family planning in case of emergencies. As we continue to fight COVID-19, involving the family in preparing for an emergency can reduce fear and anxiety that comes with unexpected events. It may also save lives.
In September, we will be doing a four-part series that can help you plan and respond to emergencies in your home and community. This week we will focus on the second part – make a disaster supply kit.
List and Organize your Supplies
Start by reviewing your family emergency plan and deciding your kit locations. Do you need one for home, the car, work, or the tornado shelter? Here are a few ideas about kits you might need.
Home Emergency Kit
This kit should be the most comprehensive and be stored in a designated place, like the tornado shelter. All family members should know where the kit is kept and what is in it. You can use plastic bins with lids to store and keep supplies fresh.
- Water – Plan for a gallon of water per person per day for drinking and cleaning
- Food – Store at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food.
- Pet food
- Radio that is battery-powered or hand crank
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Batteries
- Fire extinguisher
- Whistle
- Garbage Bags
- Moist towelettes
- Toolkit
- Change of clothes for all family members
- Sturdy shoes and socks
- Blankets and/or sleeping bags
- Heavy Tape
- Rope
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Cards or other games
Work Emergency Kit
Plan to have a “grab and go” bag at your work. If an emergency happened while you were at work, what would you need to take and meet with your family? This could include:
- Change of clothes
- Sturdy shoes and socks
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Heavy Tape
- Rope
- Small Toolkit
Car Emergency Kit
- Jumper cables
- Flare or reflective triangle
- Ice scraper
- Blanket
- Extra phone charger
- Map
- Cat litter or sand
Last-Minute Items
Keep a list of last-minute items near your emergency kits, so you know what to grab in an emergency. This could include:
- Prescriptions and non-prescription medication
- Eyeglasses or supplies for contact lenses
- Cash or credit cards
- Essential family documents about insurance policies, bank accounts, and identification
Maintain Your Kit
Make an appointment on your calendar to review your safety kits each year, update the kits as your family needs change, and replace expired items.