In our last post dedicated to National Preparedness Month, we talked about the importance of a having a Family Emergency Communication plan. This is the guide that tells your family what to do and how to reach each other if something happens when you aren’t together.
Now, we’ll get into the importance of keeping an emergency kit (or a Go-bag) packed with important supplies in case you need to #BeReady to evacuate quickly.
We wanted to show you just how easy it is to take this important preparedness step, so our team member Michelle showed us how she built her very own disaster kit! Here’s the cool part: She found all the items she needed to make this kit right in her own home!
See what she included below:
Why you need an emergency kit
We’ve said it before — emergencies are unpredictable. When one strikes, you may have limited access to resources and need to survive on what you have for several days. It’s essential to have a ready-to-go collection of basic items for your family, and that’s just what a disaster kit is!
How to make a kit for your family
Choose one or two bookbags, duffles, or lightweight plastic storage bins to hold your supplies. You’ll want something easy to carry, durable, and water resistant (in case you experience extreme weather).
FEMA recommends the following supplies for a basic kit:
- Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
- Airtight plastic bags (to hold your supplies)
You may find that, like our own team member, most of these items are already in your house. If you need to take a trip to the store, download FEMA’s recommended supplies list PDF and bring it with you.
Looking to DIY a family first aid kit instead of purchasing a new one? We’ve got you covered here.
Don’t forget to pack for your health!
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the CDC also recommends adding items to help prevent spreading COVID-19, the flu, and other viruses:
- Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above)
- Soap
- Hand sanitizer
- Disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
In an upcoming post, we’re going to talk about emergency preparedness for natural disasters, like hurricanes and tornadoes. Is your family prepared for the hazards or severe weather events that impact your area?
For information on how monitored home security can help you and your loved ones prepare for the unexpected, give us a call at 1.800.PROTECT (1.800.776.8328).
