Your area has just experienced an earthquake. The power is out. No water flows from your faucet. Are you prepared?
Being ready for the unexpected does take a little time but will pay off in big benefits during an emergency. Take the time you need now to be prepared for any emergency.
Some people enjoy pulling all these important supplies together, but if you are not one of those people, buy a pre-done kit! The Red Cross, other emergency organizations and even some big box stores sell pre-made emergency kits.
Others have streamlined this task by going to a big box store and buying the basics; water, cans of soup, granola bars, tools, flashlights, batteries, radio, matches, toilet paper, and a first aid kit. Those basics for a family of four cost about $110 (costs vary by location). Or work on one category per week until all your supplies are together in the containers you have chosen.
To help you, we have compiled a list of supplies you will need in an emergency:
- Storage: Purchase waterproof plastic box(es), a duffel bag, or even a backpack. It’s best to store your supplies all together in a container that will be easy to transport with you if necessary.
- Water: Plenty of it. At least one gallon per person for a minimum of 3 days.
- Food: Buy non-perishable foods, enough for 3 days, along with a can opener. Select foods that won’t create thirst, and can be eaten with no preparation. Canned meats, fruit, vegetables, soup, juices and milk. Peanut butter, jelly and crackers. Granola bars or trail mix.
- First Aid Kit: Include a variety of bandages, pain relievers, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, hand sanitizer, masks and don’t forget your prescription medicines.
- Tools: A wrench or pliers to turn off gas lines, duct tape, plastic sheets, swiss army knife, flashlight, work gloves and matches.
- Communication Supplies: Power packs for phones, battery operated radio (solar or hand-cranked versions are even better) and extra batteries
- Extra Clothing: shoes and blankets
- Infant Needs: Bottles, formula, wipes, diapers, and toys.
- Pet Needs: Extra water, food, toys, cat litter, toys and a picture of your pet in case they are lost during the emergency.
- Personal Documents: Copies of medical cards, passports, medical information, bank information, insurance information.
This preparation does not have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of time! But it will give you peace of mind to be prepared and ready when you and your family need it most. Now that we have covered your personal needs for an emergency, join us next week as we discuss how to prepare your home.
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