Don't get caught unprepared! What to Put in Your Emergency Preparedness Kit
September is National Preparedness Month, designed to encourage Americans to ask those kinds of questions — and take steps to ensure they can answer "yes."
In the insurance business, we know a little something about helping people recover from disasters. And we know that a little preparation goes a long way. So here are some tips from the Red Cross, Centers for Disease Control and others on what you should put in an emergency preparedness kit for you and your family:
The big stuff: food and water
At home, consider keeping a two-week supply of nonperishable food on hand in a safe, dry place. You might already have a good head start on this, depending on what's in your pantry. You also need a two-week supply of water, according to the Red Cross. That's one gallon per person, per day. And don't forget your pets. They'll need their food and water as well. For evacuation situations, take a three-day supply of the above.
Safety items
If the power is out for an extended period, you'll need flashlights or battery-powered lanterns (with extra batteries). A portable, hand-crank radio will ensure you stay informed on the situation. A first-aid kit is a must, along with at least a week's worth of any medications that family members need. Emergency blankets and warm clothes are crucial if the weather is cold. And don't forget personal hygiene items.
Paperwork
You could be forced to evacuate, so it's important to have certain things down on paper — for example, family and emergency contact information. You'll also want to keep copies of personal documents, such as proof of address, passports, birth certificates and insurance policies.
Other items
There are a multitude of other things you can include in your kit, of course. A multipurpose tool, extra cash and maps of the area are a few recommendations, along with games and activities to keep the kids occupied, if needed.
Above all, consider the unique needs of you and your family when putting together your kit. Put everything in labeled containers that can be accessed quickly and carried if necessary. Once you've created your kit, check it each September during National Preparedness Month for expired items, including medications, and missing supplies.
Of course, we hope you never have to use your kit. But it's far better to have one you don't need instead of needing one you don't have.