If the horrific, devastating images from recent wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding has taught us anything, it’s that you can never be too prepared for a natural disaster. You can get, and always be, ready by putting together both At Home and On The Go emergency preparedness kits.
Start by testing and replacing the batteries in your flashlights, as well as stocking up on backup batteries, candles, box matches and lighters. Set aside some storage for a Home Emergency Kit, in case you lose power during a winter storm. Fill the space with some non-perishable food items, 5-gallon jugs of water, and those flashlights, backup batteries, candles and matches we talked about. If you want to go the extra mile, invest in a small generator and camping stove.
If you want to be prepared in case of a sudden evacuation order, get a portable storage bin at your local hardware or home store and make yourself an “On The Go Kit.” Start by putting in a pre-packed overnight bag with about 72-hours worth of toiletries, medications, clothes, underwear, and socks. Pack up copies of important documents and any family heirlooms you would be devastated to lose in there as well. And remember your furry family members. Include your pet’s food, medications and necessities as well.
If you’re not sure where to start, the American Red Cross can help with suggestions and even a starter kit, and Costco sells emergency preparedness kits as well. Look, nobody wants to think about this. That it could happen to you. But if it does, you probably won’t have time to think. It’s better to be prepared, so you can act.
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