Would you be ready if there were an emergency? The Department of Homeland Security continually encourages Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and schools.
“There are three simple things every household can do to help prepare for an emergency: Make a Plan, Build an Emergency Kit, and Be Informed,” states Jane Lux, public health administrator at the DeKalb County Health Department. “Completing these basic steps is a great way to begin preparing your family for an emergency event.” Make A Plan. Emergencies can happen at any time, not just when everyone is together.
Create a communication plan and make sure that everyone in your family has it with them at all times. A family member or friend from outside of your area may be your designated call person for your family. In an emergency it can be easier to call long distance than to call across the street. It is also important to have a meeting place in your neighborhood. Build an Emergency Kit.
Below are some of the items that should be included in your emergency kit. A comprehensive list can be found at www.ready.gov.
- Water: 3-day supply, at least 1 gallon per person per day
- Non-perishable food: 3-day supply (including pets)
- Manual can opener and eating utensils
- Flashlight, Portable, battery-powered radio
- Extra batteries
- Basic first aid kit
- Blankets
- List of emergency contact information
- Sanitation and hygiene items (hand sanitizer, moist towelettes, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, etc.)
- Items for infants (formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers) if applicable.
Be Informed. Tune into local radio stations for the latest information. In a public health related emergency, go to the DeKalb County Health Department’s website at www.dekalbcountyhealthdepartment.org
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