American Red Cross, Lebanon Chapter

1 Get A Kit

Have at least three days of supplies in an easy-to-carry evacuation kit, with additional supplies on hand.

Remember to check your kit and replace the stock every six months.

If you purchase a kit or choose to build your own, check that it includes:

Water. Have at least one gallon per person per day.

Food. Pack non-perishable, high protein items, including energy bars, ready-to-eat soup, peanut butter, etc. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water.

Flashlight. hand-crank and alternative energy options are available. Include extra batteries, if applicable.

First aid kit. Include a reference guide for injuries.

Medications. Don't forget prescription and non-prescription items.

Radio. Include extra batteries or use a hand-crank radio.

Tools. Gather a wrench to turn off gas if necessary, a manual can opener, screwdriver, hammer, pliers, knife, duct tape, plastic sheeting and garbage bags with ties.

Clothing. Provide a change of clothes for everyone, including sturdy shoes and gloves.

Personal items. Remember copies of important papers, including identification cards, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports, etc.; eyeglasses, contact lenses and solution, and comfort items such as toys, books, and games.

Sanitary supplies. You may need toilet paper, towelettes, feminine supplies, personal hygiene items, bleach, etc.

Money. Have cash. (ATMs and credit cards may not work if power is out.)

Contact information. Carry a current list of family phone numbers and e-mail addresses, including someone out of the area who may be easier to reach if local phone lines are out of service or overloaded.

Pet supplies. For each pet, include food, water, a collar, a leash / cage / carrying case, litter box or plastic bags, tags, any medication and vaccination information.

Map. Consider marking an evacuation route on it from your local area.

Store your disaster supplies in sturdy yet easy-to-use carry containers, in a place that is easily accessible. Keep a smaller but similar kit in your vehicle. If you become stranded or are not able to return home, having some items with you will help you be more comfortable until help arrives.

Remember that what you have on hand when a disaster strikes may be the only things you have available to you and your family for quite some time. Plan to store enough supplies for everyone in your household for at least three days time. For additional information, print either of these Family Disaster Supplies or Personal Workplace Disaster Supplies Kit brochures.

Should you find that you do not want to assemble your own First Aid Kit or Disaster Supplies Kit, you can purchase them directly from the Lebanon County Chapter. Either type of kit makes a great holiday, birthday, or house warming gift.

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