Special to Iredell Free News
The Iredell County Health Department is encouraging residents to be prepared for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time.
National Preparedness Month is observed each September. This year’s theme is protecting your legacy by being prepared.
The Iredell County Health Department is emphasizing the importance of making a disaster/emergency supply kit for you and your family. Building an emergency/disaster supply kit can be a fun activity for the family to work on together.
The kit should have everything you need to survive for several days, including:
♦ Non-perishable food (canned food, crackers, peanut butter, etc.) and manual can opener
♦ Plan for special food needs for babies, pets, and anyone with allergies
♦ 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and cleaning
♦ A battery powered weather radio
♦ A flashlight
♦ A first aid kit
♦ Extra batteries
♦ A whistle to signal for help
♦ A dust mask to help filter contaminated air
♦ Plastic sheeting and duct tape, if you need to shelter in place
♦ Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
♦ Wrench or pliers
♦ Local maps
♦ Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
♦ Prescription medications
♦ Copies of important personal documents, such as insurance policies, identification, etc.
There are many other things to include in the emergency kit that will be specific to your family. Be sure to make the kit that meets your family’s needs. What might your pet, older adults, or your baby need if you had to evacuate your home quickly? Keeping the kit stocked and ready to go can make a difference in the face of a disaster.
Building a disaster supply kit together is also a good activity to get the family talking about disaster planning and is a great time for kids to ask questions that may ease their concerns. To learn more about how to stock an emergency kit visit www.ready.gov/kit and https://www.ready.gov/kids
Next week the Health Department will provide effective ways your family can plan and prepare for disasters and emergencies.
LEARN MORE
Check out our weekly tips on the Iredell County Health Department Facebook page and on the Iredell County Health Department website: https://www.iredellcountync.gov/252/Emergency-Preparedness