Why talk about a Disaster Supplies Kit?
After a disaster, local officials and relief workers will be on the scene, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it may take days. Basic services, such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones, may be cut off for days or even weeks. You may have to evacuate at a moment's notice and take essentials with you. You probably will not have the opportunity to shop or search for the supplies you will need. A
Disaster Supplies Kit can help your family stay safe and be more comfortable after a disaster.
What is a Disaster Supplies Kit?
A
Disaster Supplies Kit is a collection of basic items that members of a household would probably need in the event of a disaster. The items are stored in a portable container(s) near, or as close as possible to, the exit door. Every household should
assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit and keep it up to date. The number of people in a household and their ages and abilities will determine how many containers will be required to carry the kit items.
What to Tell Children
- Involve children in disaster preparedness at home so they are aware of the need to prepare and know what is being done. As they are able, have children help plan and assemble kits and put them where they will be ready if needed. Involving children is the first step in helping them know what to do in an emergency.
- Ask children to help the household remember to keep the kits updated by rotating the emergency food and water or replacing it every six months, and by replacing batteries as necessary. Children could make calendars and mark the dates for checking emergency supplies.
- Ask children to think of items that they would like to include in a Disaster Supplies Kit, such as books or games or nonperishable food items.
- Involve children in preparing plans and disaster kits for pets and other animals.
Adapted from Talking About Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages. Washington, DC. 2006
Labels: preparedness
by: iPrepare
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