Giving Peace Of Mind
Holiday Gifts that can Save Lives
Release Date: December 6, 2004
Release Number: R10-04-210
SEATTLE, Wash -- All disasters share a common attribute: they focus attention on the importance of pre-disaster preparedness and mitigation, and the critical need to take appropriate action before disaster strikes. The trick is to convert good intentions into tangible deeds, and according to FEMA Regional Director John Pennington, there’s no time like the holidays.
“The holidays are a great time to give important, inexpensive gifts that say: ‘I care!’ and reduce risk exposure for friends and loved ones,” said Pennington. “Disaster-ready gifts can save lives and are a wonderful way of making 2005 a more disaster-resistant year for everyone.”
Emergency and preparedness items that might make great gifts this Holiday Season include:
- NOAA Weather Radios and extra batteries.
- Smoke detectors.
- Appropriate fire extinguishers (kitchen, garage, car).
- Disaster kits for homes, offices and autos (first aid kits, food, water and prescription medications for 72 hours, extra clothing, blankets, flashlights).
- Foldable ladders for second-story escape in a fire.
- Car kits (emergency flares, shovels, ice scrapers, flashlights and fluorescent distress flags).
- Pet Disaster Kits (food, water, leashes, dishes and carrying case or crate).
- A camp stove with extra fuel.
- A yearlong Flood Insurance Policy.
A wealth of information and preparedness tips is available from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s READY.GOV site at: http://www.ready.gov and from FEMA at: www.fema.gov.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 06-Dec-2004 07:55:19