September is National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month and that means that it’s time to get your home, school, church or business ready in case of an emergency.  If you take some simple steps now, you will be better prepared for unexpected disasters and emergencies.

This month, the City of Southlake Office of Emergency Management will present a series of articles providing helpful tips on how to prepare for the worst. This week’s article discusses emergency supply kits.

An emergency can strike at any time or anywhere. Being prepared is the first step to surviving a natural disaster, fire or other emergency situation. Many families, businesses and organizations may think they are ready because they already have most of the items they would need in their home or business. The real question to ask yourself is whether all of the necessary items are in one place, ready to “grab and go” within a moment’s notice.

Don’t wait for a disaster to strike to begin looking around for flashlights, blankets, or plenty of water bottles.  Instead, create an emergency supply kit that is already prepared with everything you will need to help you survive until help arrives. You will need enough supplies to survive for at least 72 hours, since it could be that long until first responders are able to reach you.

Plan to prepare a large kit and a smaller kit in case you need to leave your location once the disaster has passed. The readiness kits should contain enough non-perishable food and water to last at least 3 days. It should also include the following: daily prescriptions, a battery-powered radio and extra batteries, flashlight with extra batteries, complete first aid kit, filter masks, whistle (to call for help), moist towelettes (for sanitation), wrench or pliers, manual can opener, plastic sheeting and duct tape, garbage bags and infant formula and diapers if you have small children. As a general rule, you will need one gallon of water per person per day for drinking.  You’ll also want to include blankets or sleeping bags for each person. A family of four may want to prepare several emergency kits for those who can carry one. Remember, planning ahead saves lives.

For a complete list of items that you will need in your emergency supply kit, visit www.CityofSouthlake.com/Prepare.