Emergency Preparedness
Does Your Family Have an Emergency Plan?
Before an emergency happens, natural or man-made, make sure that your family has a Plan. Sit down together and decide how you will get in contact with each other, where you will go and what you will do in the case of an emergency. Keep a copy of the Plan in your Emergency Supply Kit or other safe place where you can access it in the event of a disaster. Once you have developed your plan, you need to practice and maintain it. For example, ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Conduct drills, test fire alarms, and replace and update disaster supplies.
For additional resources and information on emergency preparedness, visit the National Preparedness Month website at:
Basic Emergency Supply Kit
Do you have an emergency supply kit? The Department of Homeland Security recommends the following items to include:
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Water, one gallon per person per day for at least three days
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Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
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Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
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Flashlight and extra batteries
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First aid kid
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Whistle to signal for help
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Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
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Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
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Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
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Can opener for food
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Local maps