Being Prepared!!!

In light of the recent Tornado Tragedy that has rocked our county, we would like to help you feel more comfortable if we receive more bad weather. We would like to keep those families that lost material belongings as well as loved ones in our thoughts and prayers and donate items if you can. Here is a list of items recommended by the Department of Homeland Security to have for your own basic Emergency Supply Kit.

• Water: 1 Gallon of water PER person PER day for at LEAST 3 days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food: at least a 3-day supply of NON-Perishable food
• Battery-Powered or Hand Crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and Extra Batteries
• First Aid Kit
• 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
• Can opener for food (if your kit contains canned food)
• Local Maps

These can be considered additional items but do not have to be in a basic kit:

• Prescription Medications and glasses (or a compiled list and pharmacy number)
• Infant formula/diapers/wipes
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
• Cash or Traveler's check and change
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from http://www.ready.gov/
• Sleeping Bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels or napkins
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

These items can be stored in a regular storage tote that is placed where everyone will know where to get it. When bad weather approaches, grab your emergency kit and take it with you when you seek shelter!!! For more information you can contact the local health department or go to http://www.ready.gov/