It is important to prepare for the unexpected because an emergency can happen at any time. With the National Safety Council and in honor of National Safety Month in June, we have compiled some of the best tips and resources for preparation.
Plan for Possible Emergencies
- Research, prepare for national disasters common to your area, such as floods, earthquakes or tornadoes. Stay informed during watches and warnings.
- Create an emergency kit for both your home and car
- Create a home emergency plan with your family and learn how to shut off your utilities
- Be a good participant in emergency drills at work and school by following instructions
- Store important phone numbers with other documents in a fire-proof safe or safety deposit box
- Learn first aid and CPR for children and adults and download the NSC First Aid app available on iTunes or Google App Store
Stock Your Emergency Kits Now
Your home emergency kit should contain:
- Food and water for each family member for three days, as well as a can opener and nonperishable foods
- Hand-crank or battery-powered flashlight and radio with extra batteries
- Full first aid kit, including hand sanitizer and garbage bags
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape for broken windows or leaks
- Whistle to signal for help
Your car emergency kit should contain:
- A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench, tripod jack and jumper cables
- A tool kit, compass, duct tape and car charger for your cell phone
- A flashlight with extra batteries, rain poncho and fire extinguisher
- Reflective triangles and vest, and brightly colored cloth to make your vehicle more visible
- A first aid kit and enough nonperishable food and water for three days
- Cold weather items such as a snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction and blankets
Be sure to take advantage of special free and discounted offers during National Safety Month, sponsored by National Safety Council.
- Free First Aid Online Course June 1-10. Register here.
- Discount on Emergency Preparedness Course June 1-9. Learn more here.
- Family Safety & Health magazine discount.
For more information on how you can be prepared in an emergency, be sure to review our previous blog on You are the Help Until Help Arrives.
Sources: National Safety Council, Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response