I'm sure with the coming and going of Hurricane Ida, our local tornadoes, and ever-increasing rains and floods, we have all worried about our families safety and security moving forward when it happens again.
If you’re like most families, you likely have most of the tools and supplies for an emergency kit at home- somewhere. When an emergency happens, having those items together, and in good condition will make all the difference. And, you must have a plan, in writing, ready for when disaster strikes.
September is “National Preparedness” month – so ask yourself – “Are you ready?”
Procuring your supplies can be done a little at a time, and affordably. Clean, safe, and identified kits are essential for each person in your home. Special needs for family members and pets also need to be addressed. All members of your family and caregivers need to know where the kits are. Emergency kits are for emergencies and should be separate from everyday supply cupboards. Inventory your kits routinely to keep supplies fresh and to modify for changes in your family’s needs.
Here are some of our Favorite Preparedness Resources: |
The “Family Emergency Plan”, is a must for preparing everyone you’ll be concerned for, now – before an emergency occurs. There is also a “Child Emergency Contacts Card”. Fill both of these out online, print them, and distribute them to all involved.
Here are their instructions for building a kit. Consider everyone you may be caring for and what they’ll need, with these tips.
MonkeySee.com offers short videos, prepared by a Red Cross Representative. These videos demonstrate great ideas and useful instructions.
The Center for Disease Prevention has general ideas for building kits for your home, office, and car. They also discuss preparedness involving children and pets.
Families are busy, and buying all of the supplies for a kit can be costly. I found a realistic, 5-week “Emergency Supply Shopping List and Action Plan”.
For the kids, FEMA has “Readiness U”, and Sesame Workshop’s “Let’s Get Ready” which help families discuss preparedness.
As you’re getting your family ready for an emergency, connect with your neighbors and community. Get to know those around you, so you will know who might need help, and who might be of help to you during a disaster. Contact your local emergency management offices also, to connect with notification systems and region-specific information.
Also, don't forget to read:
Our FREE, Printable Safety Plan Binder
Preparing for Emergency Preparedness Month as a Family
and
What If Your Child Needs To Call For Help
Be sure to tell local businesses and events you found them
on Macaroni Kid Greater Woodbridge
and make sure to tell all your friends!
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