Reno, Nevada. Sept. 6, 2016. September is National Preparedness Month and Washoe County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is reminding residents what to do to prepare for disasters and emergencies. Each week in September, Washoe County Emergency Management is distributing personal preparedness tips to help people prepare by making emergency plans, getting involved, assembling emergency kits and staying informed.
Preparedness Tip #1: Make an Emergency Kit: An emergency kit is simply a collection of basic items you may need in the event of an emergency. The items in this kit will be necessary if you will need to shelter-in-place or evacuate. Assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency, and update annually. Store supplies in easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Include items such as:
At least a 72-hour supply of water (one gallon per person per day). Identify the storage date and replace every six months.
At least a 72-hour supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food. Learn more about putting together an emergency stockpile with healthy food at: http://www.getreadyforflu.org/new_pg_advice_healthystockpile.htm
Non-electric can opener
Change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for every person in your household
Blankets and/or sleeping bags
First aid kit and prescription medications
Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries
Credit cards and cash
Extra set of car keys
List of important family information
Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
Style and serial number of medical devices
Don’t forget Fido and Fluffy! Include dry pet food, kitty litter, medications and water
For more information about building your emergency kit, please visit: https://www.washoecounty.us/em/preparedness/AssembleKit.php.
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