Preparedness Month is winding down, and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) is encouraging all Hoosiers to take time to put together an emergency preparedness kit.
A disaster or emergency, such as a winter storm, tornado or flooding, may leave households without electricity, heat or even clean running water. In an emergency, Hoosiers may also be cut off from local groceries and services or even from immediate response from police, fire or rescue personnel. Having a preparedness kit that is readily accessible can help to mitigate the effects of various emergencies, and they can be put together at a reasonable cost.
Listed below are items Hoosiers should consider adding to preparedness kits:
- Non-perishable food items that can last up to three days.
- One gallon of water per person per day.
- First aid kit that includes items like bandages, antibiotic ointment, over-the-counter pain reliever and sunscreen.
- Manual can opener, as powered can openers may not be usable due to a power outage.
- Blankets and extra clothing, such as sturdy shoes and long-sleeve shirts, should also be considered.
Friday, September 30 is also National PrepareAthon! Day, which is presented by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA has provided various resources to encourage citizens to take action to improve emergency preparedness. For more information about PrepareAthon! Day, visit www.Ready.gov/prepare.
For more information regarding emergency preparedness kits, visit GetPrepared.IN.gov.
