Be ready for power outages, wildfires, storms, earthquakes, and more.
For emergencies where you and your loved ones are able to stay in the home safely, the following is a basic guide to assembling a preparedness kit.
- Build a home Emergency Kit:
- Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for several days.
- Food: Be sure to keep a stock of non-perishable, ready-to-eat items like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits.
- Lighting: Keep working flashlights with extra batteries, battery-powered lanterns, or a hand-crank flashlight in accessible areas. Do not rely on candles or flames for light.
- Communication: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is essential for getting updates and news.
- First-Aid: A well-stocked first-aid kit is crucial for handling minor injuries.
- Manual Can Opener: If you have canned goods, don’t forget a manual can opener.
- Cash: Have some small bills and change for situations where electronic payment systems may be down.
- Keys: Keep extra car and house keys in the kit.
- Plan for Medical Needs:
- Medications: Consult with your doctor or pharmacist about storing medications that require refrigeration during an outage.
- Medical Devices: If you rely on electrically powered medical devices, develop a backup plan that includes a portable power station or alternative power source.
- Communication: Ensure you have a way to contact your healthcare provider or emergency services if needed.
- Ensure Communication:
- Mobile Phones: Keep mobile phones charged and consider having a portable power bank or solar charger.
- Radio: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates.
- Safety Precautions:
- Generators: If using a generator, ensure it is placed outdoors and at least 20 feet away from any openings like windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Gas Stoves: Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home during a power outage.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups on each level of your home.
- Circuit Breakers: Know the location of your circuit breakers and how to turn them off to prevent damage from power surges when the electricity is restored.
- Food Safety: Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain cold temperatures. Use perishable food first, then move to the freezer and finally to non-perishable items.
- Stay Informed:Monitor local news and weather reports for updates on the outage and any safety instructions.
- Pets:
To prepare for emergencies with pets, identify pet-friendly shelters or boarding options in advance, and ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date.
In evacuation scenarios, assemble a separate go-bag with essentials like food, water, medications, a leash, harness, carrier, comfort item(s), ear protection, a muzzle, sanitation wipes and bags, and identification. Pack at least three to seven day supply of food, stored in an airtight and waterproof container, along with a water bowl.
Resources: https://www.safetyactioncenter.pge.com/
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/make-a-plan.html?
https://www.fema.gov/pdf/areyouready/basic_preparedness.pdf
https://www.weather.gov/owlie/emergencysupplieskit
