WEEK #2

September 6th – September 12th  

“BUILD A KIT”

National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster and emergency planning now and throughout the year. The 2020 National Preparedness Month theme is:

“Disasters Don’t wait.  MAKE YOUR PLAN TODAY!”

As our nation continues to respond to COVID-19, there is no better time to be involved this September.

Week #2 focuses on BUILDING 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.

If your family already has an emergency kit, make sure you update it with supplies to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

 

  • Water-One gallon per day per person for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation. Extra if you have a pet.
  • Food-At least a 3 day supply of non-perishable food (manual can opener)
  • Infant formula-Bottles, diapers, wipes and rash cream (if you have an infant)
  • Pet food
  • Radio-Battery powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather radio with tone alert. Extra batteries.
  • Flashlight-With extra batteries
  • First Aid Kit-Include face coverings and protective gloves
  • Non-prescription medications-Pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, laxatives, antacids
  • Prescription medications-Keep a list of physicians and your prescriptions
  • Prescription eyeglasses-Contact solution
  • Whistle-To signal for help
  • Dust mask-To filter contaminated air
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape-To shelter in place
  • Moist Towelettes/Wipes-Personal and disinfecting
  • Hand Sanitizer and Soap
  • Garbage Bags and Ties-For personal sanitation
  • Wrench or Pliers-To turn off utilities (work gloves)
  • Sleeping bag and warm blanket-For each person (change of clothing/shoes)
  • Local maps
  • Cell phone-With chargers and a backup battery
  • Cash and traveler’s checks-ATM’s and charging capabilities may be disrupted
  • Important family documents-Copies of insurance policies, identification, bank account records should be saved electronically on a thumb drive or kept in a waterproof portable container
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  • Paper and pencil-Games, cards, puzzles or other activities for children
  • Paper goods-Paper plates and cups, paper towels, and plastic utensils
  • Toilet paper…..as we all know from experience, make sure you have plenty!

For more information and resources on how you can become a better prepared member of the community go to https://www.ready.gov/september or contact the Inyo County Office of Emergency Services at (760) 878-0120