2020 has taught us that you never know what the future may hold. From wildfires to flooding, disaster can strike when you least expect it and you can never be too prepared. Creating a Disaster Readiness Kit can help you to be ready whether you need to leave your home quickly or hunker down for a few days. Having a prepped kit can ensure that you have what you really need in a moment’s notice and can give you peace of mind.
When you are creating your Disaster Readiness Kit, consider the types of situations that are unique to your area. For example, those in California may want to prep for a wildfire evacuation while those here in the Northeast may be prepping for floods or blizzards instead. Here are a few examples of what might be in a Disaster Readiness Kit for someone living in the northeast:
- Water, enough for everyone in the family for a few days
- Non-perishable and canned foods and a non-electric can opener
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio with extra batteries
- Extra clothing and blankets for each member of the family
- A first aid kit
- Emergency cash
- Chargers for electronics, including car chargers
- A whistle to signal for help
- Duct tape
- Copies of personal documents, including a home inventory list and insurance policies
- Hand and foot warmers
- Pen and notebook to keep any important notes
- Baby or pet supplies if applicable
- A 3-7-day supply of any medication for family members or pets
This is just an example of what a disaster readiness kit could include. When creating your list, consider what is right for you and your family and the area you live in. You can also check out ready.gov/kit to get more advice or download an already prepared list.
