Give The Gift Of Disaster Preparedness
Release Date: December 18, 2003
Release Number: 1502-07
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RICHMOND, Va. -- At this time of year, the thoughts of many Americans turn to gift giving. What do you give the loved one who “has everything?”
The Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would like to offer some gift suggestions for that special person who might not be prepared for disasters or emergencies.
“While these may not be the fanciest gifts to give, they may save a life, save property or make dealing with a disaster a little easier,” said Lou Botta, federal coordinating officer.
Here are some suggestions from FEMA and VDEM:
- NOAA weather radios and extra batteries
- New smoke detectors and batteries
- Appropriate fire extinguishers (kitchen, garage, car)
- A home disaster kit that could include items such as a flashlight and batteries, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, bottled water, and canned goods with a manual can opener. Place the items in a plastic tub or backpack
- Foldable ladders for second-story escape in case of fire
- Car emergency kits that could include flares, a shovel, an ice scraper, flashlight and fluorescent distress flags
- Enrollment in a CPR or first aid class
- Pet disaster kit that could include extra food, a leash, food dish, pet toys that would fit in a bag or backpack.
- A National Flood Insurance Policy
For information about how to be prepared in the event of a disaster, visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s website at www.vaemergency.com or 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: Thursday, 18-Dec-2003 14:45:25