Disasters like Hurricane Katrina often leave people little time to prepare. Many critical decisions must be made within, at best, a few hours. This seems like a good time to review FEMA's Emergency Preparedness information:
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) web site provides an Emergency Preparedness Checklist (pdf) and html. It offers tips for creating a Disaster Supplies Kit - for both home and vehicle, as well as other useful information.
Prepare a Disaster Supplies Kit
- Assemble supplies in your home that you might need quickly in an evacuation. Store them in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or duffle bag.
Include:
- A supply of water (one gallon per person per day). Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Identify the storage date and replace every six months.
- A supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food and a non-electric can opener.
- A change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes.
- Blankets or sleeping bags.
- A first aid kit and prescription medications.
- An extra pair of glasses.
- A battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries.
- Credit cards and cash.
- An extra set of car keys.
- A list of family physicians.
- A list of important family information; the style and serial number of medical devices, such as pacemakers.
- Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members.
Prepare an Emergency Car Kit:
- Battery powered radio and extra batteries
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Blanket
- Booster cables
- Fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type)
- First aid kit and manual
- Bottled water and non-perishable high energy foods, such as granola bars, raisins and peanut butter.
- Maps
- Shovel
- Tire repair kit and pump
- Flares
Additional Links:
FEMA - Donate to Disaster Relief
FEMA - Preparation and Prevention
FEMA - Are You Ready?
Call for Help From the Medpundit Blog:
Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians is requesting donations of supplies and expertise
Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians is requesting donations of supplies and expertise
For the Animals:
The ASPCA is seeking donations for the animals and animal shelters affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Comments