SelectHealth | Total Fitness | Winter 2016

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To prepare for disasters, the pre is important
to stress—that is, gather emergency items
in advance, putting them all in one place,
and letting everyone in the family know
where they are. If an emergency occurs,
you’ll be ready to provide for yourselves
for a few days, if needed.
Making up a family emergency kit is
a great family project. Pack items in
containers that are easy to grab and
carry, such as a duffel bag or one or two
camping backpacks.
Begin with these basics:
• A three-day supply of water (about
one gallon per person per day) and
nonperishable food
• A can opener and utensils for
cooking and eating
• Sanitation and hygiene items, such as
toilet paper
• A flashlight and extra batteries
• A hand-crank or battery-
powered radio
• Extra clothes and shoes
• Photocopies of important
documents, such as emergency
contacts, insurance policies, birth
certificates, and a list of medications
• A first aid kit
• A multipurpose tool
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Duct tape and plastic sheeting, in
case you need to shelter-in-place
• Any special items, such as
medications, baby formula and
pacifiers, or food and water for pets
Keep the supplies in a cool, easy-access
spot and replace the food and water
every six months. The Federal Emergency
Management Agency advises to rethink
the kit once a year to keep up with your
family’s changing needs.
For more ideas—including
additional items to pack
and what else to consider during
emergencies and evacuations—
visit the American Red Cross at
.
Peace of mind: Making an
emergency supply kit
Total Fitness | Winter 2016 |
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