Monday, December 30, 2013

Prepare Your Family For An Emergency

By Martina Levinston


The importance of putting together a home emergency kit to help you and your family through a disaster is pretty obvious. Think back on the millions of people along the East Coast who lost power for days because of Sandy. Could you survive such a situation?

We all hope that this will never happen to us. But it makes sense to put together an emergency kit just in case a similar situation strikes you and family. If there is some sort of disaster, these are some of the items that should be prepared:

A flashlight. You'll need a good one, and it shouldn't be a rechargeable one, either. Don't forget that days could go by with no power at all to your home. Have plenty of spare batteries in the kit, and replace them periodically if they are close to their expiration dates. Kerosene lamps are another good idea if that is something you are confident about caring for properly. Some candles - and matches - also are a good idea.

Hand sanitizer is another important item. Water can become contaminated, so it may be a while before you will be able to wash your hands normally. Hand sanitizer and paper towels should be part of your kit in order for you to avoid germs and to be more comfortable.

A car adapter is a must. You can use this to recharge your electronics, including your smartphone, so that you can have communication that you will definitely need.

Bottled water is essential. If you won't have water for washing your hands, you certainly might not have it for drinking purposes. Your home should have at least one spare case of water at all times because as we all know, it doesn't take long to become dehydrated. You should probably supplement that case when a hurricane or other natural disaster is approaching.

A two-week supply of food is usually the norm for recommendations on emergency kits. Non-perishable food items are essential - canned goods, peanut butter, and energy bars are good to add. If you are able to, have a gas grill on hand so you can do some cooking if need be. You should have some gasoline stored somewhere safe. If you forget a can opener you will have some trouble, so store one in your kit as well. Gather together some plastic bowls, utensils, cups, and paper plates for your kit.

A well stocked first aid kit is essential. Keep bandages, antibiotic ointments and other supplies, in addition to pain relievers and gastrointestinal medicines and any allergy pills you regularly take. You should also have all your prescriptions in order.

Most homes have sleeping bags, but if you don't have them it would be wise to get them. Don't forget that in a disaster, you may not be able to sleep in a bed for a while. If you need to leave your home for a while, sleeping bags will be comforting and warm for you and your family.

If you have no power, these items can't make up for that. But they can help you and family survive the worst of times until power is restored and you're back in your home.




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