Being disaster ready

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

In order to be fully prepared, you should have all pertinent and proper information in a written plan for east retrieval. Some key questions to consider when creating a person preparedness plan include:

• Do you have an escape or evacuation route in place?
• Do you have a designated meeting place in case of separation?
• Does everyone have a list of contact information including family members out of state who can serve as a point of contact?
• Do you have a disaster supply kit with necessary supplies?
• Do you have a first aid kit that includes necessary prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and basic medical supplies?
• Do you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water?
• Do you have access to important family documents, including insurance policies, bank, credit card, and loan information and family records such as birth certificates and social security cards?
• Do you have an inventory of valuable household goods?

A well-equipped disaster supply kit should include, but is not limited to, the following,

• Water - a large enough supply to provide each person with 1 gallon daily for drinking and sanitation.
• Food - enough to last 3-7 days. Food needs to be non-perishable or canned food. You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates, and plastic utensils.
• Bedding including sheets, blankets, and pillows.
• Clothing - remember it may be warm, however, you may be working and cleaning and may prefer pants or long sleeves to protect your skin. You will also need sturdy, closed toe, non-slip shoes if available.
• First aid kit including antiseptics or sanitizers and bandages, over-the-counter and prescription medications.
• Extra flashlights and batteries. Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available.
• Toiletries including toilet paper and hygiene items. Hand sanitizers are also good to have on hand.
• Battery-operated radio with extra batteries so you can listen to weather service announcements.
• Cash - you will want some cash and small bills on hand as banks may not be open.
• Emergency phone numbers and contact information including insurance agent and family contacts.
• Tools, tarps, plastic sheets, trash bags, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs.
• Important documents should be kept in a waterproof bag or plastic sealed container and should include insurance, medical and family records, birth certificates, social security cards, bank account information and a complete home inventory analysis.
• Gas - fill you car's tank ahead of time if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
• Pet care items including food, leash and a carrier or cage.

Don't wait until it is too late; prepare not to help protect your family in an emergency or disaster situation.