Hurricane Season & Emergency Preparedness Month
Hurricane Season has arrived and so has September, which is Emergency Preparedness Month. This yearly campaign serves as a reminder to have basic supplies set aside that may be needed for emergencies. It is suggested to have a backpack, large shopping bag or a shelf, a box or a large plastic bin to hold some or all of the list below tucked away in a space such as that closet that you have been meaning to clean out.
- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days; drinking & sanitation)
- Extra water for the toilet
- Food that can be eaten cold (Consider food & water for pets too)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio - NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert is a great addition
- Flashlight with batteries (don't forget to check twice a year) or a lantern (you may be able to find one that's solar powered)
- First aid kit
- Moist towelettes
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
- Garbage bags & ties (for personal sanitation needs)
- Whistle (signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps if you need to travel
When you have your chosen space and your items from the list, don't forget to personalize them for each member of the family.
Having supplies in one space will save you from looking for items in the dark or having items scattered all over the house. Remember to check items at least twice a year; consider checking items on January 1st and July 4th - SO easy to remember.