Giving Peace Of Mind - Holiday Gifts That Can Save Lives
Release Date: December 6, 2001
Release Number: R10-01-62
Seattle, WA -- Major disasters share a common, and positive, 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 Deputy Regional Director Tammy Doherty, 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 Doherty. "Disaster-ready gifts can save lives and are a wonderful way of making 2002 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.
Listen as Tammy Doherty, Deputy Regional Director for FEMA Region X, suggests disaster-ready items as gifts for the holidays. (.wav ~5 MB) or read the transcript. (Microsoft Word)
Last Modified: Tuesday, 21-Oct-2003 13:40:46