September 2013 marks the tenth annual National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the US Department of Homeland Security.(1) Just as you would plan and prepare an employee safety program, there is much you can do to plan and prepare for the impact of the many hazards in today’s world including natural hazards like floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes and widespread serious illness such as the H1N1 flu virus pandemic.(2)
One of the best ways to be prepared for an emergency is to assemble a basic disaster supply kit. Here are a few things FEMA recommends for your kit:(3)
- 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
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
- Flashlight and xtra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
Below are some helpful websites that include preparedness tools, kits, and check-lists for you to use for your family or your business.
(1) http://www.cdc.gov/features/beready/
(2) http://www.ready.gov/business
(3) https://specialtyfuelservices.com/disaster-preparedness-kit/
(4) http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family
(5) http://www.30days30ways.com/
Though emergencies are often unexpected, we can be prepared when one occurs.
