To keep you and your family safe during a disaster, like a hurricane, it is important to have an emergency plan in place. The best way to be prepared is to put together an emergency preparedness kit. Don’t wait until the potential for disaster arises, make your kit now! This kit should be filled with essential items that you would need to survive for a minimum of 72 hours if disaster strikes. Many people may put off creating this kit because they aren’t sure what to add to it. So, here are a few items we recommend each household adding:
Water
This is a no brainer! Water is key for survival. A good rule of thumb is to have one gallon of water per person, per day for at least three days.
Food
Another no brainer! When packing food in your kit, make sure that all items you select are non-perishable. Canned goods are a great option. Remember to include enough food for three days – but, of course, more is always better! Don’t forget pet food!
Can Opener
If you’ve added can food to your kit, you’ll need a way to open it! This one may seem random, but it is important to remember!
Flashlight and Extra Batteries
A flashlight will be very useful when the power goes out and you don’t have lights. Be sure to include extra batteries as well!
Hand Crank or Battery Powered Radio
If the power goes out, you will not be able to watch your T.V. or local news channels. Having a radio on hand will allow you to be able to stay informed and updated during a storm or disaster.
Cell Phone Charger and Back-Up Batteries
In today’s age, we would feel lost without our cellphones. We rely on them to stay in contact with friends and family. So, if an emergency were to happen you want to make sure that you include backup batters and chargers in your kit, so that you can keep you phone charged.
First-Aid Kit
In any type of emergency, it is always a good idea to have a first-aid kit available in case someone gets injured. Make sure that you have Neosporin, band-aids and gauze.
Matches or Lighter
Packing matches or a lighter and slow burning candles can be a great backup in case something happens to your flashlight.
Whistle
A whistle can be used to signal others for help. Three blasts from a whistle is the international signal for distress.
Make sure that all of these items, and anything else you may need to be prepared for an emergency situation, are packed in an easy-to-carry container. Place the container in a convenient location that is easy to grab whenever you may need it.
At The Jones Companies in Jacksonville/Onslow County and surrounding areas, our goal is to repair damage from any type of damage and make you whole. Give us a call for all of your restoration needs.