Building An Emergency Kit
The 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season is the first in recorded history in which 13 tropical storms formed before September, with as many as 25 being predicted before the end of storm season on November 30. As part of National Preparedness Month we are sharing tips and resources on the CMS blog each week to help you keep your family and property safe.
This week we’re helping you build a hurricane kit. This kit should be ready at all times in the event of an emergency and should include everything you need to survive unaided for seven days. Remember to utilize your Emergency Plan to account for the unique needs of family members and pets as you build your emergency kit.
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit:
Store items in your kit in airtight plastic bags and make sure your entire kit can fit into easy-to-carry containers like plastic bins or a duffel bag. While you want to be prepared, remember that this needs to be something you can “grab and go.”
The basic kit should contain the following:
Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Whistle (to signal for help)
Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
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)
Manual can opener (for food)
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Download a physical copy of the Recommended Supplies List to use as a checklist by clicking HERE.
Additional recommended supplies:
Since the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic this Spring, the CDC has recommended adding the following items to your emergency kit to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Cash or traveler’s checks
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Once your kit is complete, don’t forget to store it in a cool, dry place where it is easily accessible. Maintain your kit periodically by replacing expired items as needed.
If a disaster does occur, after you make sure everyone is safe and you inform your loved ones you are okay, call us at 866-345-2033 with any questions about insurance coverage or property damage claims.
