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Question: How can I better prepare myself and my family for an emergency? Answer: The Ready Campaign and its partner Citizen Corps ask Americans to take important steps to prepare, including get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan, be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses, and get involved in the community. More information, including an emergency supply kit checklist and a family emergency plan template, is available on the Ready Website or by calling 1-800-BE-READY. Question: What should be included in an emergency supply kit? Answer: In a basic emergency supply kit, the Ready Campaign recommends including the following: One gallon of water per person per day, for three days remember to include enough for your pets, too. At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water and choose foods your family will eat: ready-to-eat canned meats, peanut butter, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola. Also pack a manual can opener and eating utensils Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both Flashlight and extra 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 Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities Local maps Ready also encourages an individual to think about the special needs of family members: Prescription medications and glasses Infant formula and diapers Pet food, extra water for your pet, leash and collar Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children For a complete list of items, we encourage people to visit the Ready Website to download a free emergency supply checklist or call 1-800-BE-READY. Question: How can I develop a family emergency plan? Answer: Preparing a family emergency plan is simple. You can get started by using a free family emergency plan template available at the Ready Website. A family emergency plan can help a family to stay in contact if they are separated during an emergency. Question: How can I stay informed about emergencies? Answer: Its important that you know the potential emergencies that can happen in your state, region and community. Go to www.ready.gov and click on Ready America, then Community and States Information to find out more information about your local area. For specific questions about the area where you live, contact your state or local Office of Emergency Management. Ready recommends including a battery operated radio, such as a NOAA radio with tone alert, to stay apprised of developments during emergencies. It is always important to listen to and follow the advice of local officials in the event of an emergency. Question: How can I talk to kids about emergency preparedness? Answer: The Ready Kids Web site focuses on weather-related emergencies and helps parents educate children, ages 8-12, about emergencies and how they can help their families prepare. The Ready Campaign encourages parents to visit the Web site with their children. In addition, the Ready Campaign has developed Ready Kids in-school materials for teachers, which are available at Ready Website or by calling 1-800-BE-READY. The Ready Campaign consulted a number of organizations experienced in education and childrens health including the American Psychological Association, American Red Cross, U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to develop Ready Kids. Together, these experts agree that it is appropriate to reach children, parents and teachers to discuss potential emergencies and how to be prepared. Question: How can pet owners prepare for emergencies? Answer: Pet owners should assemble an emergency supply kit that includes enough pet food and water for three days, medications and medical records, leashes, ID tags and other appropriate supplies. Its also recommended that pet owners have an emergency plan that considers the needs of their pets and they learn more about the types of emergencies that could happen in their area and the appropriate responses. Pet owners can download a free brochure from Ready Website or request a copy by calling 1-800-BE-READY. The Ready Campaign consulted with a number of organizations experienced in animal health and well-being to develop Ready for Pet Owners information. These organizations include American Kennel Club, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, American Veterinary Medical Association and Humane Society of the United States. Question: How can older Americans and individuals with disabilities and other special needs prepare for emergencies? Answer: Ready encourages individuals to make an emergency supply kit, including food and water, medications and medical records, and personal items such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, wheelchair batteries and other appropriate supplies. Ready also recommends that individuals develop an emergency plan that considers their unique needs and a personal support network they can call upon in the event of an emergency. To learn more, visit the Ready Website for a free brochure or call 1-800-BE-READY. The Ready Campaign consulted with a number of organizations experienced in the health and well-being of older Americans and individuals with disabilities and other special needs to develop Ready information tailored to their unique needs. These organizations include AARP, American Red Cross and the National Organization on Disability. |
