Cooperative Living July 2018 - 24

SafetySense
Here's how to create an emergency kit
E
mergency situations, such as severe storms, floods or other
disasters, often happen without much warning. To help keep
your family safe, it's smart to have a pre-assembled emergency
kit ready to go - just in case.
Here is a suggested supply checklist along with a few tips.
Depending on your family's unique needs, you may want to include
other items in addition to those mentioned.
Water
Pack at least three gallons of drinking water for every household
member, based on a minimum of one gallon per person per day.
Unopened commercially bottled water is ideal. You can also store
larger quantities of water in sanitized, unbreakable food-grade
containers, but be sure to replace this water every six months. For
water needed for pets and uses other than drinking, fill bathtubs,
stock tanks and other large containers. You may also want to include
water-purification tablets or a water-filtration system.
Medical Supplies
Include at least seven days' worth of essential medications and
medical supplies, plus a well-stocked first-aid kit and some
emergency blankets. Consider how to ensure that family members
with critical prescription medications will have an adequate supply.
Nonperishable, Easily Prepared Food
Include enough to provide balanced meals for every household
member for at least three days, as well as provisions for any infants
and pets. If you include canned food without pull-top lids, add a
manual can opener. Add plastic plates, cups and utensils and a way
to heat food and beverages, such as a portable propane stove.
Personal Hygiene and Sanitation Items
This should include toilet paper, moist wipes, paper towels and
trash bags. If you have an infant or toddler, include diapers.
Tools
Include a couple of flashlights, a battery-operated weather radio,
extra batteries for battery-operated devices, a few fully charged
cellphone battery packs, a multipurpose tool, a wrench or pliers for
shutting off utilities, and a whistle in case you need to sound for help.
Important Documents
Make copies of your driver's license and other ID, birth certificates,
insurance policies and prescriptions, and store these in a waterproof
container. Include current photos of every household member, an
emergency contact list, important medical information, a road map
for your area, some cash and change, and pens and paper.
Pet Items
Include carriers, leashes, collars or harnesses, ID tags,
medications, newspapers or disposable litter boxes, and proof of
current vaccinations. In addition to having basic pet items in your
emergency kit, have a plan in place for temporary pet housing.
Miscellaneous Items
You may also find it useful to include rain gear, disinfectant,
waterproof matches, a tent and sleeping bags, two-way radios, cards
or board games, plastic sheeting, scissors, duct tape, work gloves,
and tools and supplies for securing your home.
Store your emergency supplies in sturdy, water-resistant containers
such as plastic totes, packing so each is light enough to carry should
evacuation become necessary. Make sure that every member of your
household knows where the emergency supplies are stored and that
everyone knows not to remove items for everyday use. Go through your
kit every six months to review the contents and replace any outdated items.
Should a severe storm be forecast, it's also a good idea to refuel
your vehicles and have extra cash on hand, as the ability to pay for
food, fuel and other supplies using a credit card may be impacted. 
22 | Cooperative Living | July 2018
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Cooperative Living July 2018

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