Are You Prepared for a Natural Disaster?
Whether it's Hurricane Sandy or another natural disaster, it's always comforting to know you're prepared for whatever comes your way. Here, you will find a guide, courtesy of the Delaware County Department of Emergency Services.
Have a Plan
Consider each person your plan will cover and what specific needs they have, be it medical or otherwise.
Pets
Pets are not normally allowed in public shelters
Plan in advance where you can take your pet in the case of evacuation.
Don’t forget pet medication, food and water
Supplies
Keep in stock enough food to last you a minimum of three days. Store emergency supplies in airtight containers. Keep these supplies in cool, dry places.
Water
You'll need 1 gallon of water per day per person. Stored water should be changed every 6 months.
Food
Rotate stored food supply so that your emergency supply stays fresh
Stock foods that need no refrigeration or cooking
Store foods that need little or not water to prepare such as:
Canned or ready to eat meats, fruits vegetables
Canned milk & juices
High energy foods such as peanut butter, granola bars or crackers
Other Emergency Supplies
Manual can opener – (non-electric)
Cups, plates, utensils
Flashlight and extra batteries – rotate batteries regularly
Radio – battery powered and extra batteries
Matches
Fire extinguisher
Dusk masks
Pliers and shut off wrench - to shut off water and gas lines
Scissors
Needles and thread
Whistle
Compass and local map
Paper, pens and pencils
Blankets and/or sleeping bags
Changes of clothes for everyone
Sturdy shoes or boots – no sandals
Rain gear
Warm coats, gloves, hats
First Aid Kit** (see below for list of contents for basic fist aid kit)
Board games, playing cards
First Aid
Sterile bandages
Gauze
Adhesive Tape
Elastic Bandages (sprained ankles, etc)
Aspirin and Non-aspirin pain relievers
Cough syrup
Antihistamine and decongestant tablets
Antacid
Anti-diarrhea medication
Thermometer – mercury free
Scissors, tweezers and safety pins
Alcohol wipes
Iodine or hydrogen peroxide
Bite and sting ointment
Antibiotic ointment
Disposable gloves
Cotton balls
Listing of family members medical conditions, allergies and medications
Toiletries
Soap and hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and paper towels
Garbage bags
Toothpaste and toothbrushes
Shampoo and deodorant
Feminine supplies
Comb, brush
Disinfectant
Chlorine Bleach
Money
In the event of an evacuation, ATMs are sometimes shut down. Prepare with some extra cash on hand.