Hurricane Season is Here

 

It is important to be prepared for an emergency as preparation helps to:

• Reduce fear & anxiety
• Increase the likelihood of survival & healthy outcomes 
• Adjust to limited resources during times of disaster. 

Your personal emergency kit should contain essential items that you cannot live without. Items should be placed in a sturdy, durable container & kept in a place that is easily accessible in your home. Let’s pack an emergency preparedness kit that you can use at home or take with you in case of evacuation! 

Building a Personal Emergency Kit

Your emergency preparedness kit should include:  

• Water – pack a minimum of 72 hours of fresh water  
• Food – 72 hours’ worth of non-perishable food items  
• A flashlight or light sticks  
• Extra batteries – for flashlight, radio, breathing devices, cochlear implants, cell phones, hearing aids, etc.  
• Battery-operated or hand crank radio  
• First aid kit  
• 7-day supply of Rx medications  
• A Whistle or other signaling device – something to capture attention in your direction  
• At least one change of clothing – it is recommended to have protective clothing and a pair of sturdy shoes  
• A blanket(s)  
• Cash – do not count on credit and debit cards during times of emergency  
• Cell phone and charger  
• Personal hygiene items – deodorant, soap, sanitary pads, etc.  
• Other disability specific equipment – cane, walker, eyeglasses, etc.  
• Copies of important documents – birth certificate, passport, insurance policies & medical information  
• Family and emergency contact information  

Two important documents to include in your kit are the Emergency Information List and a Medical Information & Supply List. Both are available for download from Emergency Preparedness Workbook for People with Disabilities, pages 9 & 10. These documents will help to identify personal medical needs and can also help keep you in touch with those in your personal network.  

Additional supplies to consider:  

• Anti-bacterial wipes, plastic bags, garbage bags to assist with clean up  
• Multi-purpose tool  
• Duct tape  
• Pet food & extra water for your pet {our next emergency preparedness eblast will be instructions on prepping your pet}  
• Sleeping bag  
• Fire Extinguisher  
• Pencil and paper  
• Local maps  
• Can opener  
• Books, games, puzzles – for kids and adults!  

There are many helpful resources available online. For additional tips and guidelines, visit SCEMD, Family Emergency Kit or Red Cross, Survival Kit Supplies.  

Sources:  

• Emergency Preparedness Workbook for People with Disabilities  
• SCEMD, Family Emergency Kit  
• Red Cross, Survival Kit Supplies