Cell Home Car
 |
 New Sony HID C10 Dash 7 Personal Internet Viewer  US $94.95
|
 BlackBerry Bold 9000 for ATT WARRANTYGPSWiFi3GEXTRAS US $230.00
|
 ACDC Power Cable Cord For Peek mobile E mail device US $11.99
|
Preparing for the Unexpected: How to Build Home Emergency Kits
Don't worry about all the frightening and dangerous crises that can assault you and your family—instead, get ready to withstand them by having plans and preparations in place.
Here are some important guidelines:
- EVERY FAMILY MEMBER SHOULD KNOW WHAT TO DO in all types of emergencies. Have practice drills with everyone. Designate a meeting place outside your home so where everyone knows to go in an emergency. All family members should know where utility cut-offs are located and how to shut them off. If tools are needed, everyone should know where they are kept and how to use them. Keep emergency numbers such as fire, police, doctors and poison control posted in a highly visible location.
- PURCHASE SELF POWERED FLASHLIGHTS AND SELF POWERED RADIOS. In the event of a disaster, power will be out and batteries are likely to be unavailable. Some self-powered radios have the Weatherband/Emergency Band and will also charge your cell phone.
- ALWAYS FOLLOW THE ADVICE OF OFFICIALS. Stay tuned for emergency instructions.
- STAY HYDRATED. Water is the most essential life-sustaining resource. Keeping water (in clean plastic bottles) in your home, car trunk and workplace will keep you hydrated when you're under stress. Plan for one gallon per person for three days use. You may need more water for children, nursing mothers and the elderly or if you live in a warm climate. It is also a good idea to add electrolyte-replacement drinks like Gatorade to replace valuable minerals.
- OBTAIN A WATERPROOF BOX. This does not have to be expensive, just a large waterproof box with a lid. These are available in the storage sections of most discount stores. It should be small enough so that in an emergency, you can roll it into your car, yard or home in just a few minutes. Look for something with wheels and/or handles. Consider placing kits in your home, car and workplace since you never know where you'll be when an emergency strikes. Use backpacks or plastic tool boxes for jump-and-run bags. Keep everything sorted with clear zip sandwich, quart or gallon bags. For worker/s in large urban areas keep a back pack under your desk which contains water, energy bars, flashlight, spare socks and good walking shoes in case public transportation is disrupted.
- WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR EMERGENCY KIT. The U. S. Department of Homeland Security has prepared an emergency supply list. Here are some of their suggestions:
* A list of doctors and family contacts in your kit, along with your personal information. If something happens to you, who should we call? Do you have allergies? Who are you and where do you live?
* Water, at least one gallon for each person for at least three days.
* Food, at least a three day supply of non-perishable food.
* Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio and a NOAA Weather radio with extra batteries.
* Flashlights with extra batteries; hand-powered flashlights...
* First Aid Kit and instructions on first aid.
* Whistle or some other signaling device.
* Collapsible tents if available, but also plastic sheeting with duct tape to form a "shelter-in-place".
* Moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties.
* Can opener for canned goods.
* Local maps.
* Prescription medications and eyeglasses.
* Infant formula and diapers.
* Pet food and water.
* Important papers in a waterproof container, i.e.: insurance documents, bank account information, deeds, titles or other official certificate
* Cash, travelers' checks and change.
* Sleeping bags for each person packed with extra blankets and a change of clothes
* Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
* Fire extinguisher
*Sewing kit with scissors and thread
* Matches in a water proof container or lighters.
* Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
* Mess kits including paper cups, plates, towels and utensils
* Computer with wireless connection, paper and pencils, books, games, puzzles or other activity items.
Have your family review and discuss what's in your kit and what else they feel should be included. There may be some unique items needed for your family.
7. CONSIDER COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM TRAINING. Students may be given a kit that can be used as a starter for your personal disaster kit.
MAKE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS A FAMILY PRIORITY…everyone can help!
About the Author