September is National Preparedness Month. FEMA and the American Red Cross define preparedness as being equipped with the supplies you may need during an emergency event or a natural disaster. Keep these items in a kit or bag you can use at home or take with you in case of an evacuation.
Extended Safety Message:
Disasters can happen anywhere, anytime. Even in someone’s own home. The American Red Cross is urging everyone to take three easy steps to get their household ready for emergencies. The three steps are as follows: 1. Put together a ready kit, 2. Make a plan for home and vehicle, 3. Stay Informed.
At a minimum, everyone should have the basic supplies listed below.
- Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
- Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
- Flashlights
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
- Multi-purpose tool
- Personal hygiene items
- Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
- Cell phone with chargers
- Family and emergency contact information
- Extra cash
- Blankets & towels
- Paper maps of the area
- Extra face masks, gloves and sanitizer materials