GENESEO – With winter storms on the horizon now is a good time for build a disaster supplies kit to help you weather such emergencies as a power outage, or if you are stuck at work or stranded in your car.
The Livingston County Department of Health and the Livingston County Office of Emergency Management have information to help you “Build A Kit.”
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare disaster supplies kits for home, work and vehicles. Make sure all family members know where the kits are kept.
A disaster supplies kit for your home is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Visit https://tinyurl.com/nvyzy7f6 for a preparedness checklist.
After gathering basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors. Don’t forget to include additional items such as cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces which help prevent the spread of COVID-19, flu, or other viruses.
To assemble your home kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or duffel bags. Remember it is important to maintain your kit so it is ready when needed.
Some helpful tips:
- Keep canned food in a cool, dry place
- Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers
- Replace expired items as needed and re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
A Work Kit should be stored in a “grab and go” case with items that you will need for at least 24 hours. Items include food, water and other necessities such as medicines and comfortable walking shoes.
Build a car kit in case you get stranded in your vehicle. Keep an emergency supply kit in your car that include jumper cables, flares or reflective triangle, ice scraper, car cell phone charger, blanket, map and cat litter or sand (for better tire traction).
For more information, visit https://www.ready.gov/kit.