Do you have your Disaster Prep Kit Ready?

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure your kit is prepped for this storm season.

After the recent flooding in the Midwest and the erratic weather patterns over the last couple years, more and more people are thinking of preparation.  One thing that many homes overlook is a disaster preparation kit to ensure they are able to remain safe during and after a disaster.  

According to www.ready.gov there are some basic supplies that you should ensure are in your kit...

• Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food - at least a three-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 and 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 a backup battery

Depending on the time of year you may also want to consider other items in your kit.  Make sure to store in a waterproof container and have easily accessible.  

Here are a few additional suggestions from www.ready.gov for your kit that may help...

• Prescription medications
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Glasses and contact lense solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, 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
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
• 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

Do not forget to check your kit yearly to make sure all flashlights are working, all batteries are still good, and food has not expired.  

For more information please visit https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit

Remember when disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes

712-262-4379