Patti Leitner
2018-2019 National Americanism Ambassador/Patriotic Instructor
Disaster Preparedness Kits
Our world is uncertain and unpredictable. We need to be prepared for challenges and natural disasters when they come our way. Every season brings different events and/or problems with our weather and climate, including floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, hail, snow, ice, sleet, earthquakes, wildfires, extreme heat and drought. I suggest you have a backpack or container such as a bucket with a lid and handle for easy handling with at least a two week supply of needed items. Keep your backpack in your car and the container/bucket in a location that’s easily accessible for a quick exit from your home. Some items to include in your disaster preparedness kit include, but are not limited to:
- Copies of insurance information for health, home and auto
- Bank information
- Medications for one to two weeks
- Medical mask and gloves
- Keys for your home, car and safe deposit box
- Phone and charger
- Flashlight and batteries
- Fire starter
- Emergency blanket-MCR medical silver metallic (prevents heat loss and hypothermia)
- Safety light (SnapLight burns for 12 hours)
- Hooded poncho
- Water
- Crackers
- Canned food
- Can opener
- Whistle
Visit fema.gov for more information.
Your Auxiliary could host a disaster preparedness kit packing event or fundraising project. Auxiliary members could fill backpacks or containers with some or all of the above items and sell them to the public or use the kits as a raffle item.
We need to be prepared. You and your family need to have an exit plan, especially in case your home catches on fire. Does someone know where you keep important medical and legal paperwork such as who you want contacted in case of an emergency, a copy of your will, power of attorney information, etc.?
Our world also has problems caused by other humans. Problems we are not proud of, such as crimes against our family and friend, including stalking, shootings and bombings. There are also problems related to technology such as phone scams, identity theft and cybersecurity issues. Our local and national law enforcement tells us, “If you see something, say something.”
Be aware of your surroundings. When you go into a theater, grocery store, department store, doctors office, arena, church, any facility, even an airplane – KNOW YOUR EXITS.
You and your family need to be prepared for any situation that may come your way. You never know what is around the next turn and you will be happy you were prepared for it.
