Safety Sunday

Now, I truly don’t believe the world is coming to an end soon, in 2012 or any time in my life but it does not hurt to be prepared. In the light of the recent tragedy in Japan many people have been asking me about a safety survival kit. With a little research, here is a list of what I’ve come up with. I also believe that a miniature version of the below list should be kept in your car and suit case while traveling. As always, be safe, be smart and have fun!

Emergency Supply List:

Start with a large water resistant tub that locks well. You will want to have enough supplies to keep you alive for at least 72 hours.

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Pet food, extra water, collapsible dog bowl, and sanitation bags for your pet
• Battery-powered / hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries, Light stick
• Whistle to signal for help
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Can opener for food
• Household non-scented chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – Diluted 1/9th bleach/water = disinfectant. Or 16 drops per gallon to sanitize drinking water.
• Personal hygiene items including soap and toothpaste
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
• Various sized Ziploc bags
• One emergency blanket per person and pet
• A 20 foot or longer nylon rope

In large space-saver plastic bags (the kind that you roll the excess air out of to save space):
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.
• One towel per person or pet

In large Ziploc bags:
• Matches & lighter
• Paper and pencil
• Dust mask (one per person) to help filter contaminated air
• First aid kit and a first aid book
• Local map
• Cell phone with chargers
• Prescription medications and glasses
• Cash and change
• Important documents i.e.: copies of insurance policies, ID and bank account records
• A pack of cards or other small activities

Be ready by doing these three key things: get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan and learn about the different types of emergencies that could occur and the appropriate responses.