DISASTER SUPPLY KIT AND PLANNING TIPS
If a disaster or an emergency should hit your area, it's important to make sure you are prepared. Here are some tips to follow in case you are faced with a worst case scenario.
• Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
• Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard. In certain circumstances the safest areas may not be your home but within your community.
• Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet. These should be measured in tens of miles rather than hundreds of miles.
• Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact.
• Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
• Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
• Check your insurance coverage - flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance.
• Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a Disaster Supply Kit.
• Use a NOAA Weather Radio. Remember to replace its battery every 6 months, as you do with your smoke detectors.
• Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.
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Disaster Supply Kit
It's also important to make sure you have a kit ready to go and that you could survive on a few days.
• Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
• Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
-- non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
-- foods for infants or the elderly
-- snack foods
-- non-electric can opener
-- cooking tools / fuel
-- paper plates / plastic utensils
• Blankets / Pillows, etc.
• Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
• First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
• Special Items - for babies and the elderly
• Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
• Flashlight / Batteries
• Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
• Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
• Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
• Keys
• Toys, Books and Games
• Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight sealable plastic bag
-- insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
• Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
• Vehicle fuel tanks filled
• Pet care items
-- proper identification / immunization records / medications
-- ample supply of food and water
-- a carrier or cage
-- muzzle and leash