Health Topic

CREATING AN EMERGENCY KIT FOR YOUR HOME

Planning in advance for an emergency situation can help protect us, and our families, in a time of need. Preparing an emergency kit is one of the key steps you can take to ensure preparedness. If the emergency at hand makes you go without electricity, heat, or water for an extended period of time, an adequate emergency kit will enable you to cope better.

The following items should be included in your emergency kit:

1. At least a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day)
2. At least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person
3. Special items for family members with special needs:
   • Children
   • Elderly
   • Disabled
   • Pets
4. At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food for each person. Select foods that require no refrigeration, cooking or preparation. Select food items that are compact and lightweight, and rotate the food supply every six months.
5. Tools and Supplies
   • Blankets or bedding
   • Battery-powered radio and batteries
   • Non-electric can opener
   • Flashlight and extra batteries
   • Personal hygiene items
   • Small fire extinguisher
6. First Aid Kit
   • Sterile adhesive bandages
   • Gauze pads
   • Eye Wash
   • Antiseptic spray or hydrogen peroxide
   • Aspirin and non-aspirin pain reliever
   • Hypoallergenic adhesive tape
7. At least a three-day supply of all prescription medications. Replace these medications as needed to maintain a supply of medications that are not expired.

For a more complete list of items that can be included in your personal emergency kit, and to view other preparedness suggestions, please visit www.health.state.pa.us and look at the “Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness Guide”.