Hurricane Irene and the recent power outage in San Diego remind us that emergencies can strike without warning. The best time to get prepared is before a disaster happens because during an emergency you may not have time to search or shop for supplies, and stores may be swamped with other people who failed to prepare in advance.
Prudent emergency preparation starts with having an adequate supply kit. Your kit should include items you may need at home or if you need to evacuate. The best policy is to have several kits?one in your home, one in your car, and one kit at the office. Store your kit in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or a duffle bag and make sure your kits contain the following essential items.
Water and Food
The Department of Homeland Security recommends one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation, and at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. U.S. Coast Guard approved food and waters pouches are ideal for emergency situations. They have a 5-year shelf life and do not require preparation (no water or heat).
Wind-Up Radio with
Flashlight
Battery-powered radios with a flashlight are fine, but wind-up devices are better because you won't need to rely on batteries.
First Aid Kit and Hygiene Kit
Your first kit should contain items for basic injuries and instructions. Basic hygiene items include toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
N95 Face Mask
The N95 face mask can filter up to 95 percent of the dirt and toxins in the air and was widely used in Japan after the earthquake and tsunami.
Emergency Space Blanket
A quality space blanket will hold in 80 percent of your body heat.
Emergency Whistle
Use your whistle to signal for help.
Pry Bar and Multi-
Function Tool
Use your pry bar to break windows, pry open doors and dig through debris. Look for a multi-function tool that has a knife, pliers and an opener for bottles and cans.
Waterproof Matches
In certain situations, building a fire might be necessary.
Light sticks
A quality light stick will give you 12 hours of safe, glowing light.
Rain Poncho
A quality rain poncho can also be used as a tent or a tarp.
Work gloves
Work gloves are important for safety, hygiene and comfort.
Duct tape
One million uses and counting, duct tape is a handyman's best friend.
Personal Items
Include medications, eyeglasses, important paper documents (wills, credit card and bank information), jewelry, cash ($1 bills) and extra pair of shoes and a change of clothing.
Emergency preparedness is your responsibility. Please take the time to prepare today for tomorrow's emergencies.
Frischer can be reached at
[email protected].
Prudent emergency preparation starts with having an adequate supply kit. Your kit should include items you may need at home or if you need to evacuate. The best policy is to have several kits?one in your home, one in your car, and one kit at the office. Store your kit in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or a duffle bag and make sure your kits contain the following essential items.
Water and Food
The Department of Homeland Security recommends one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation, and at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. U.S. Coast Guard approved food and waters pouches are ideal for emergency situations. They have a 5-year shelf life and do not require preparation (no water or heat).
Wind-Up Radio with
Flashlight
Battery-powered radios with a flashlight are fine, but wind-up devices are better because you won't need to rely on batteries.
First Aid Kit and Hygiene Kit
Your first kit should contain items for basic injuries and instructions. Basic hygiene items include toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
N95 Face Mask
The N95 face mask can filter up to 95 percent of the dirt and toxins in the air and was widely used in Japan after the earthquake and tsunami.
Emergency Space Blanket
A quality space blanket will hold in 80 percent of your body heat.
Emergency Whistle
Use your whistle to signal for help.
Pry Bar and Multi-
Function Tool
Use your pry bar to break windows, pry open doors and dig through debris. Look for a multi-function tool that has a knife, pliers and an opener for bottles and cans.
Waterproof Matches
In certain situations, building a fire might be necessary.
Light sticks
A quality light stick will give you 12 hours of safe, glowing light.
Rain Poncho
A quality rain poncho can also be used as a tent or a tarp.
Work gloves
Work gloves are important for safety, hygiene and comfort.
Duct tape
One million uses and counting, duct tape is a handyman's best friend.
Personal Items
Include medications, eyeglasses, important paper documents (wills, credit card and bank information), jewelry, cash ($1 bills) and extra pair of shoes and a change of clothing.
Emergency preparedness is your responsibility. Please take the time to prepare today for tomorrow's emergencies.
Frischer can be reached at
[email protected].