If you don't think it's important to be ready for a disaster before it strikes, you may want to check out FEMA's Web site. It reads: "You may need to survive on your own after a disaster. Basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days, or even a week or longer."
Fortunately, being ready "to survive on your own" can be as simple as stockpiling some food, water (plan on a gallon per person per day) and other important items in an emergency kit. Here's a look at what else you might need:
• Health-Pack plenty of Band-Aids, antiseptic, bandages and gauze. Also, if you or your family members take medication, keep an extra week's worth on hand.
• Communications-Keep a charged cell phone ready in case a disaster strikes, but remember that something as simple as a whistle can be a means of communication, too. In addition, a battery-operated radio can help you get important disaster or storm updates from officials.
• Documents-Include multiple copies of important documents such as birth certificates, health insurance information and identification in your kit, as well as extra cash and a credit card.
• Tools-Pack a multi-tool. It saves space and can come in handy in a variety of situations. For example, the Mountaineer, made by Sheffield Mfg., has different-sized screwdrivers, pliers, wire cutters, a saw, and a bottle and can opener, among other features. It's also lightweight and comes with a D-ring that allows it to be clipped to just about anything (including an emergency kit).
• Light-Since many disasters revolve around rain or flooding, it's a good idea to pack a flashlight that can take getting wet. GreatLITE makes a waterproof, battery-operated one called Marine Lamp. It features a floatable, lightweight plastic body and is weather resistant.
Of course, a well-packed emergency kit only helps if you can find it quickly. So be sure to keep the kit in an easily accessible place and let each member of your household know where it's stored. That way you'll be ready to go on a moment's notice, should an emergency arise.
For more information, visit www.sheffield-tools.com and www.great-lite.com.
An emergency kit should include water, food, a multi-tool and waterproof flashlight, among other items. |
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