Be Prepared for All Emergencies with Us

Fall is a great time to reflect on ourselves and our families. With large holidays coming up centered around our families, friends, and those we love, it’s a great time to evaluate how prepared you and your family are for an emergency.

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Check out our recommendations for building an emergency bag for your family:

Essential Supplies:

• Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days (including pets).
• Non-perishable food: At least a three-day supply for each family member, including baby formula and pet food.
• Manual can opener.
• First aid kit: Include necessary medications, bandages, antiseptic wipes, etc.
• Personal hygiene items: Such as soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toothbrushes, and toothpaste.
• Important documents: Store copies of identification, insurance papers, medical records, and contact information in a waterproof container.
• Cash: Keep a small amount of cash in case ATMs are unavailable during evacuations.
• Maps: Local area maps and an evacuation route plan.
• Flashlights and extra batteries.
• Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife.

Clothing and Comfort:

• Extra clothing and sturdy shoes for each family member.
• Blankets or sleeping bags for warmth.
• Comfort items: Toys, books, or games for small children to ease anxiety during the evacuation.

Special Considerations for Small Children:

• Diapers and wipes: Enough for at least three days.
• Baby food and formula: Pack enough to last the duration of the evacuation.
• Baby bottles and feeding supplies.
• Child-size face masks: In case of poor air quality.
• Baby carrier or sling for easy transportation.
• Any necessary comfort items: Pacifiers, blankets, favorite stuffed animals, etc.

Special Considerations for Elderly Family Members:

• Medications: Have a supply of prescription medications to last during the evacuation.
• Medical equipment: If applicable, include items like hearing aids, glasses, walkers, etc.
• Extra mobility aids: Canes or walking sticks, if needed.

Pet Essentials:

• Food and water: Enough for at least three days.
• Collapsible food and water dishes.
• Leashes, harnesses, or carriers for transportation.
• Pet medications and medical records.
• Toys or comfort items for pets.
• Waste bags for cleanup.
• Current photo of your pet: In case they become lost during the evacuation.

Additional Items:

• Cell phone and charger.
• Battery-operated or hand-crank radio.
• Extra keys for your home and vehicle.
• Matches or lighters in a waterproof container.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Face masks, gloves, and hand sanitizers.

Family Specific Items:

• Consider your family's specific needs, such as prescription glasses, hearing aids, special dietary requirements, or medical conditions.

Regularly Review and Update:

• Check your emergency kit regularly and replace any expired items.
• Review your family's needs and adjust the kit as necessary based on changing circumstances.

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As your local emergency responders, we’re passionate about educating and empowering our community to put their safety first and take steps to be better prepared for emergencies. Save this as a checklist and build your emergency kit today, so you’re ready for any emergencies that may quickly arise tomorrow or the following days.