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Wednesday, July 25, 2012

GET A PLAN!

GET A PLAN! You can take steps to decrease the impact of a disaster by planning in advance and learning about potential threats. It is important to make sure that your plans are adequate for your family’s situation. Practice your plans regularly. Having a basic kit on hand to sustain yourself and your family after an emergency is an essential part of preparation. Think first about basic survival needs: fresh water, food, clean air, and warmth. Store your supplies in a portable container as close as possible to an exit and review the contents of your kit at least once a year. Include in your kit: • 3-day supply of water: at least 1 gallon per person per day • 3-day supply of non-perishable food • Manual can opener and eating utensils • Supplies to care for your pets including 3-day supply of food and water, ID tags, proof of vaccinations, and veterinarian contact information • Flashlight • Portable, battery-powered radio • Extra batteries • Basic first aid kit and manual • Warm clothing and blankets • Whistle • Filter face masks (N95 rating) • List of emergency contact information • Photocopies of important documents (birth certificate, licenses, insurance information, etc.) • Cash and coins • Sanitation and hygiene items (hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, etc.) • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper: 9 parts water to 1 part bleach can be used as a disinfectant, 16 drops of bleach to 1 gallon of water can be used to treat water in an emergency (do not use scented, color safe, or bleaches with added cleaners) • Items for infants (formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers) if applicable • 4 or 5 solar lights (regular garden lights) – these will light your space all night and recharge during the day