September is National Preparedness Month and this year’s theme is “Start A Conversation,” so what better time to talk about being prepared with an emergency kit? Talking about bad things that could happen like a disaster or emergency isn’t always easy. We may think we’re protecting the people we love by avoiding these conversations, but it is important to start taking steps to get ready and stay safe.
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for a short time. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
If you already have an emergency kit, have you checked it lately? It is important to check for expired supplies and replace them, so that everything is in order and working when needed.
If you don’t already have a kit, don’t panic! I am going to walk you through a four week plan to build a kit. If four weeks is not realistic, spread out the purchase of these supplies in a way that fits your budget but also offers you peace of mind that you are ready in the event of an emergency.
Let’s dive right into week 1.
Purchase these items at the grocery store:
2 gallons water per person
1 jar of peanut butter
6 – pack, 6 oz juice
2 cans meat/chicken/tuna per person
1 6-pack fruit per person
1 hand-operated can opener
2 permanent markers, paper & pen
Feminine hygiene supplies
Pain reliever in child proof container
Additional (as needed):
Pet food
1 gallon water for each pet
Leash or pet carrier
Diapers
Baby Food
Purchase these items, commonly found at a hardware or dollar store:
Heavy cotton or hemp rope
Duct tape
2 flashlights with batteries; extra batteries
Battery-powered radio; extra batteries
Take These Action Steps:
Test smoke alarms and replace batteries (at least once per year)
Encourage neighbors to develop their own plans
Sign up for First Aid/CPR class
Check with your children’s day care center or school about disaster plans and contacts. Make certain they have your emergency contact information.
Make sure to store your emergency items in a waterproof container, preferably one that is easy for you to carry and transport.
Next week, I will share the next steps in building your kit.
Megan Batson, BS, REHS, is the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Fayette County Public Health. For more information about emergency preparedness, visit faycohd.org.
