Insurance » Hurricanes » Make An Emergency Kit In Case Disaster HitsDisasters come in many forms and can strike virtually anywhere at any time. We all need to be ready for the worst, says Don Lauritzen, a spokesman for the American Red Cross."It's important for households to be prepared by taking three simple steps: get a kit, make a plan and be informed," he says. "Individuals and families should gather emergency supplies like food, water and other basic supplies that will last for three days."Stock up on nonperishable food, water and emergency essentials before a storm approaches or other crisis comes. Last-minute shoppers will find long lines and depleted supplies. And after a disaster hits, trucks may not be able to make deliveries right away, and stores may be closed for several days.The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says to consider using plastic storage containers or duffel bags to hold your emergency kit. Put the supplies in a place where you can grab them easily.
Insurance » Hurricanes » Make An Emergency Kit In Case Disaster Hits
Disasters come in many forms and can strike virtually anywhere at any time. We all need to be ready for the worst, says Don Lauritzen, a spokesman for the American Red Cross.
"It's important for households to be prepared by taking three simple steps: get a kit, make a plan and be informed," he says. "Individuals and families should gather emergency supplies like food, water and other basic supplies that will last for three days."
Stock up on nonperishable food, water and emergency essentials before a storm approaches or other crisis comes. Last-minute shoppers will find long lines and depleted supplies. And after a disaster hits, trucks may not be able to make deliveries right away, and stores may be closed for several days.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, says to consider using plastic storage containers or duffel bags to hold your emergency kit. Put the supplies in a place where you can grab them easily.
Forget anything that requires the stove, microwave or refrigerator because power outages are routine during and after natural disasters and can be lengthy. You want to stock up on items that can be eaten right out of the can, bag, box or bottle.
For post-storm cooking, use a chafing dish heated by a cooking fuel such as Sterno. Sporting goods or outdoors stores also sell a variety of propane-fueled stoves. A charcoal grill will be a godsend, but be sure to have briquettes, lighter fluid and matches. And obviously, don't use propane or grills inside the house.
FEMA recommends the following food supplies for your emergency kit:
Try to avoid foods that could make you thirsty. Choose unsalted nuts and crackers, FEMA says.
And don't forget your pets' needs.
Figure on having at least one gallon per person per day, FEMA advises. You'll need more for kids, sick people and in hot weather. Also, note that some of the water is to drink, and some will be for bathing and flushing toilets. The two supplies aren't treated or stored in the same way.
The American Red Cross and FEMA advise that you also think about the following for your emergency kit:
Bankrate wants to hear from you and encourages thoughtful and constructive comments. We ask that you stay focused on the story topic, respect other people's opinions, and avoid profanity, offensive statements, illegal contents and advertisement posts. Comments are not reviewed before they are posted. Bankrate reserves the right (but is not obligated) to edit or delete your comments. Please avoid posting private or confidential information, and also keep in mind that anything you post may be disclosed, published, transmitted or reused.
By submitting a post, you agree to be bound by Bankrate's terms of use. Please refer to Bankrate's privacy policy for more information regarding Bankrate's privacy practices.