After last week’s weather event, we thought that reminding everyone of a helpful Emergency Preparedness Kit List which can be readily available might be helpful. Borrowing a running list from Ready.gov as a great starter, find what you may already have and see if adding these may make your next event a little more bearable.
-Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
-Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
-Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
-Flashlight
-First aid kit
-Extra batteries
-Whistle (to signal for help)
-Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
-Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
-Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
-Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
-Manual can opener (for food)
-Local maps
-Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
-Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
-Prescription medications
-Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
-Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
-Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
-Pet food and extra water for your pet
-Cash or traveler’s checks
-Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
-Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
-Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
-Fire extinguisher
-Matches in a waterproof container
-Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
-Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
-Paper and pencil
-Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children