Emergency Preparation: Build your Kit!

 

It is important to be prepared for an emergency as preparation helps to 1. Reduce fear & anxiety 2. Increase the likelihood of survival & healthy outcomes 3. 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  

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!  

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.  

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  

Able South Carolina

803.779.5121/ advocacy@able-sc.org