Your Family Needs An Emergency Supply Kit
September is National Preparedness Month
Release Date: September 17, 2006
Release Number: 1603-558
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NEW ORLEANS, La. -- Everyone, regardless of where he or she lives, is urged to assemble an emergency supply kit. Emergency preparedness officials with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of Louisiana have produced a list of essential items for families to consider when they pack supplies.
Emergency Supplies Checklist
Recommended supplies to include in a basic kit:
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Water: one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation
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Food: at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
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Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
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Flashlight and extra batteries
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First aid kit including a three-day supply of prescription medications
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Whistle to signal for help
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Dust mask or cotton t-shirt to help filter the air
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Moist towelettes for sanitation
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Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
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Can opener
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Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
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Garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
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Sturdy shoes and extra clothing and blankets
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Three-day supply of pet food
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Cash
Think about your family's unique needs. You may wish to pack diapers, infant formula, bottles, comfort items, books, paper, pens, and a deck of cards or other forms of entertainment. When you assemble your kit, consider putting together a spare kit for your car or your office. This checklist with more details and other useful information are free online at www.ready.gov and www.ohsep.louisiana.gov.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Monday, 18-Sep-2006 07:52:11