You never know. There’s no need to live in fear, and one way to ensure you can enjoy every moment and yet still be ready for the unexpected is to be prepared with a plan. Some situations are unpredictable, but others like local weather patterns, environmental dangers (like critters and heat) are known and expected, and then there are occasional experiences like power outages, and minor injuries. While we can’t plan for it all, having the basic tools available can make the difference in how a situation plays out.
It’s suggested that every household have a “be ready” kit. This contains basic items that can help in a variety of situations. Sources share that these items should include:
- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Glass breaker
- Seat belt cutter (keep one in every vehicle)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
In addition to these items, consider your individual family’s needs.
- Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
- Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
We’ve previously shared a variety of tips that cover everything from how to avoid and treat heat exhaustion and heat stroke, snake bites and other critters, as well as what to do in extreme weather. You can read those posts below, as well as several others that share how to stay safe during the upcoming holiday months- from Halloween to Thanksgiving food prep, to winter decorating.
-https://www.ready.gov/kit