Build an Emergency Kit

After a major disaster the usual services we take for granted, such as running water, refrigeration, and telephones, may be unavailable.  Experts recommend that you should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least three days. Store your household disaster kit in an easily accessible location.  Put contents in a large, watertight container (e.g. a large plastic garbage can with a lid and wheels) that you can move easily.

Your Basic Emergency Kit should include:

Go-bag

A component of your disaster kit is your Go-bag. Put the following items together in a backpack or another easy-to-carry container in case you must evacuate quickly. Prepare one Go-bag for each family member and make sure each has an I.D. tag. You may not be at home when an emergency strikes so keep some additional supplies in your car and at work, considering what you would need for your immediate safety.

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Water

In a disaster, water supplies may be cut off or contaminated. Store enough water for everyone in your family to last for at least 3 days.

If you store tap water:

If you buy commercially bottled “spring” or “drinking” water:

Treating Water after Disaster:

If you run out of stored drinking water, strain and treat water from your water heater or the toilet reservoir tank (except if you use toilet tank cleaners). Swimming pool or spa water should not be consumed but you can use it for flushing toilets or washing.

Treatment Process:

Strain any large particles of dirt by pouring the water through layers of paper towels or clean cloth. Next, purify the water one of two ways:

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Food

When a disaster occurs, you might not have access to food, water and electricity for days, or even weeks. Store enough emergency food to provide for your family for at least 3 days.

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First Aid

In any emergency, you or a family member may be cut, burned, or suffer other injuries. Keep the following basic first aid supplies so you are prepared to help when someone is hurt.

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Children

Plan:

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Seniors

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Pets

Plan

Make a Go-bag for each pet

Include:

Respond

Evacuation

Locate all your animals and keep them with you. Be aware that shelters will only allow service animals. In a large-scale disaster, animal shelters will be set up when possible.

If you must leave your pets behind:

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Source: http://www.72hours.org