Can you help me with tips on how to set up an emergency kit for my house?
Here are the basics for your household Emergency Kit – but don’t forget to create one for your vehicle as well! Use a plastic container large enough to hold all or most of these items and place it in an easily accessible location in or around your home.
1. Water: Have at least one gallon of water per person and enough for three days. Don’t forget to include water for your family pets too! This will cover your family for drinking water as well as sanitation needs.
2. First Aid: You can create a first aid kit or purchase one at most drug stores, camping supply stores, office supply stores, etc. You may want to include over the counter items such as aspirin, Neosporin, hydrogen peroxide, stomach aids, etc.
3. Whistle: Be sure to include a whistle so if rescue workers need to locate you they can find you with the whistle!
4. Radio & Batteries: You can purchase a battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and don’t forget extra batteries for both.
5. Flashlight: and extra batteries. For kids, you may want to get the glow-in-the-dark sticks and jewelry. It will make the time less frightening and a little adventurous for them.
6. Personal Sanitation Items: Moist towelettes, garbage bags, toilet paper, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
7. Tools: Tools such as a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities; a can opener for food (if kit contains canned food); Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger, hammer/axe combo if you need to put up a tent.
8. Additional Items: Include cash or travelers checks along with ID in case banks are not functioning; local and state maps in case you need to evacuate via an unfamiliar route; Prescription meds; extra pair of glasses; diapers and formula for infants; pet food. Also consider including a sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person; a change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes; feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
9. Bleach: Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
10. Food: Put together enough food for at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food; fire extinguisher; matches in a waterproof container; mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels.
11. Keeping Busy: Paper and pencil; books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.
Also check out http://ready.gov and www.getbuttonedup.com for additional guidelines.
