Public Health

• Making a basic emergency kit is simple and just requires a few items to help your safety and the safety of your family. To assemble your kit, make sure you store your items in an airtight plastic bag and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy to carry duffle bags or bins. Here are some suggestions to include in your kit:
  • Water (one gallon per person per day for several days for drinking and sanitation).
  • Food (At least several days’ worth of non-perishable items).
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio/NOAA Weather Radio.
  • First Aid kit.
  • Extra Batteries.
  • Whistle.
  • Dust Mask (N95 for everyone).
  • Plastic Sheeting, scissors and duct tape.
  • Moist Towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation).
  • Wrench or pliers.
  • Manual can opener (for food).
  • Local map.
  • Cell phone (chargers and backup batteries).
  • Emergency Blankets.
• Additional emergency supplies (based on individual needs):
  • Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.
  • Medications (prescription and non-prescription).
  • Prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses.
  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and dippers rash cream.
  • Pet food and extra water for them.
  • Cash.
  • Important documents (insurance policies, ID’s, bank records, saved in a waterproof portable container).
  • Sleeping bags or warm blankets.
  • Complete change of clothes and shoes for appropriate climate.
  • Fire extinguishers.
  • Matches in waterproof container (or waterproof matches).
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene.
  • Mess kits (paper cups, plates).
  • Entertainment supplies (books, games, puzzles or other activities for children).

After making your emergency kits, make sure to maintain it and check for dates of expiration on some of the supplies, making sure that the emergency kit is always ready when needed.

Emergencies can occur at any time, so by ensuring you have supplies at home, at work, and in your car, you’ll be prepared for any situation. Things to look out for when placings kits in specific locations.

• Things to check for:
  • Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
  • Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal container.
  • Replaced expired items.
  • Re-think your needs every year.

• Home: Store the kit in a designated location and ensure its easily accessible in case you need to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members are aware of its location.
• Work: Be ready to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should contain food, water, essential items like medications, and comfortable walking shoes, all packed in a “grab-and-go” case.
• Car: Keep an emergency supply kit in your car in case you get stranded.

• Step 1: Put a plan together by discussing the questions below with your family, friends or household to start your emergency plan. Some questions to consider when planning:
  1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
  2. What is my shelter plan?
  3. What is my evacuation route?
  4. What is my family/household communication plan?
  5. Do I need to update the emergency kits?
• Step 2: Consider specific needs in your household.
  1. Tailor your plan and supplies to your specific needs and responsibilities. Discuss how your network can assist with communication, childcare, business, pets, or medical equipment. Create a personal support network for areas where you need help.
• Step 3: Create a Family Emergency Plan.
  1. Feel free to use this plan as a tool to help create yours: https://www.ready.gov/plan-form
• Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household.