In 2012, a Derecho roared thru our area just before the 4th of July holiday. High winds brought down trees and caused power outages for several days. Thankfully, no one was hurt. If this event happened again, are you better prepared now or not? Here are some ideas: First, build a kit. What do you need? Get a large plastic tote with a tight fitting lid, or just a box if you want. Then, Add:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First Aid kit
- Battery powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather radio and extra batteries for them.
- Water- one gallon per person, per day for at least 3 days for drinking and sanitation.
- Food -non-perishable such as granola bars, soup, dried fruit, anything you can eat without having to cook or is very easy to fix. A 3 day supply is recommended.
- Whistle – to signal for help.
- Gloves, dust mask to help filter contaminated air, plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
- Garbage bags, paper towels, toilet paper, and moist towelettes for personal sanitation.
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
- Can opener for food.
- Local maps
- Prescriptions and spare glasses.
- Infant formula and diapers, feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
- Pet food and extra water for your pet.
- Cash
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, bank records, etc.
- Sleeping bag or blankets
- Change of clothing for each person in your household and extra shoes.
- Fire Extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container.
- Spare charging cord for your cell phone.
- Paper cups, plates, plastic utensils.
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles, toys or other activities for small children.
- Unscented household chlorine bleach and a medicine dropper. *
- Any other items that your family thinks should be included.
Sounds like a lot? Not really. Everyone should have some basic supplies on hand to survive for at least 3 days when emergencies happen. Take into consideration where you live and who all lives with you. Don’t forget about your pets. They need supplies too. Depending on the scope of the emergency, it may take several days for roads to be cleared, the power to be restored or floodwaters to recede. By building a kit, you are prepared to ensure your family will have the tools they need to survive for at least 3 days.
*Can be used as a disinfectant- nine parts water to one part bleach. Or in an emergency you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do NOT use scented, color safe bleach or bleaches with added cleaners.
Still want more information? Contact your local Emergency Management Agency. In Guernsey County we are located at 627 Wheeling Ave, Cambridge. Or give us a call at 740-432-9292.