Safety Tip Tuesday - National Preparedness Month - Week 1

September is National Preparedness Month, encouraging Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities. The 2022 campaign will focus on protecting your legacy: “The life you’ve built is worth protecting. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family.”

The goal of NPM is to increase the overall number of individuals, families, and communities that engage in preparedness actions at home, work, business, and school.

Week 1 - Build a Kit

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets, seniors, or children.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

  • 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)

  • 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 backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

  • Prescription medications - about 1/2 of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day.

  • Non-prescription medications

  • 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

For more information, visit ready.gov/kit

GIVEAWAY!

Fill out the form below by noon on Thursday, September 8th to be entered into this week’s giveaway and a chance to win a YETI cup.

Announcements, SafetyAli BurgessAnnouncements, Notify