Emergency Preparedness Kit

The Basics

Starting off a simple first aide kit is a great addition to keep in your home and your preparedness kit. Making sure you have basic first aide items like bandages, gauze and alcohol pads, can really help you if you’re caught in an emergency situation. You never know how fast help will home if there’s a disaster, and you never know if you’re going to be caught in a situation where you’re stuck in one spot for a little while, so food and water is essential. Also don’t forget a few changes of clean clothing and lighting, like flashlights. After a natural disaster you can’t assume help with arrive immediately, so having the basic necessities for you and your family can give you so much peace of mind.

Medications

If you’re taking a certain type of medication daily, then you’re still going to need that medication after a natural disaster. Keeping those medications with you in your preparedness kit will be vital to your health if you find yourself in a disastrous situation. In addition to specific medications it’s always a good idea to keep generic medications with you as well. Small over the counter pain medication like Advil and Tylenol are great to keep in your kit as well.

Paperwork  

In the event that you have to be evacuated or your home is completely destroyed, keeping your most important papers in your kit will be very beneficial. Important documents are not easily replaced, birth certificates, social security cards and home deeds all need to be kept in a safe place, and in your preparedness kit.

Pets

I am a HUGE animal lover that is no secret whatsoever, so the thing I immediately think about is the pets. I have two cats that I got three years ago, and ever since then I have a separate preparedness kit just for them. Since I have two cats my kit includes a small litter box with litter, a few of their favorite toys, kibble, and separate water with bowls just for them. There is usually someone who will come help the humans, but having help for your pets isn’t something most people think about. Getting their food, water, some toys and any medications for them are essential to making sure they’re just as safe and protected as you are.

You can’t control the weather, but you can prepare yourself in case the worst happens.

-Jordan Newcomer

Licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Agent