In view of the recent disaster in Moore, OK, we thought a refresher course on Disaster Preparedness would be in order. Not only are suggestions for an emergency kit at home included, but one you might need for the car in case of evacuations. Each year, millions of people are affected by earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. Since natural disasters occur unexpectedly and can affect any one of us, it is wise to be prepared. Some things we can do in advance of a disaster include planning where to meet if family members get separated and who you will notify of your whereabouts. We can also assemble a store of emergency supplies. You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days. Relief workers may be on the scene, but they can’t reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it may take days. In addition, basic services like electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days or even longer.
The following is a list of basic supplies you may want to put in your Emergency Kit:
Water– One gallon of water 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 extra batteries for both.
Waterproof flashlight and extra batteries
First Aid Kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask– to help filter contaminated air and 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
Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers
Additional Items to Consider:
– Prescriptions and glasses
– Infant formula and diapers
– Pet food and extra water for your pet
– Important family documents in a waterproof container
– Cash
– First aid book
– Sleeping bag for each person
– Complete change of clothing
– Feminine hygiene items
– Toilet paper
– Matches in a waterproof container
– Paper and pencil
– Mess kits, paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils, paper towels.
Source: www.ready.gov
The New York City Office of Emergency Management recommends that households plan for evacuation by assembling a “go bag”—a durable, accessible, easy-to-transport bag containing important emergency items. The following may be included:
▪ Copies of important documents in a waterproof container
▪ An extra set of car and house keys
▪ Credit or debit cards and cash
▪ Bottled water and nonperishable food
▪ Flashlight(s), AM/FM radio, cell phone (if you have one), extra batteries
▪ Medication for at least one week, a list of dosages, prescription slips, and doctors’ names and phone numbers. (Be sure to replace medications before their expiration date)
▪ First-aid kit
▪ Sturdy, comfortable shoes and rainwear
▪ Contact and meeting place information for your household, as well as a regional map
▪ Child-care supplies
Although based on the official list, the above includes minor changes. Not every item listed may be suitable in your case or in your part of the world, and some items may have to be added. For example, seniors and the disabled have their own special needs.
