by Kate Evans
Families should be prepared for possible severe weather and other emergencies year-round including hurricanes, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, blizzards, heavy snowstorms, freezing rain or sleet, sub-freezing temperatures or extremely high winds. These weather situations can knock out heat, electric power and communications to homes and businesses for days at a time.
Ready.gov and other online sources list emergency supplies that families should keep on hand to be prepared.
Emergency home supplies
Have rock salt, sand, snow shovels and other snow removal equipment and warm clothing, blankets or sleeping bags on hand. Families should always have 7 to 10 days of supplies of extra food, water and medications at home, first aid supplies and 7-14 gallons of water for each family member.
Emergency kit supplies include ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables, granola bars, protein bars, drinks, cereal, crackers, peanut butter and jelly, nuts, liquid bleach to purify water, multi-vitamins, rain gear,
warm socks, hats and gloves, mess kits, paper cups, paper towels, plastic utensils, a flashlight and batteries, a portable radio or battery-operated/hand-cranked NOAA weather radio, maps, a can opener, a utility knife, toilet paper, personal hygiene items, baby food and baby supplies, over the counter medications, eyeglasses, cell phones and keys.
Additional items
Other items to have on hand include a whistle to call for help, soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, moist towelettes, garbage bags and ties, dust masks, plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place, non-prescription medications like antacids and pain relievers, a fire extinguisher and matches in a waterproof container.
Stock foods you normally use that don’t need refrigeration or cooking. Keep extra food and water for your pets.
