Preparation is crucial when it comes to natural disasters. With the support of The Emergency Disaster Services team, Peer Magazine wants to inform our readers of the importance of having an emergency kit. It is recommended that an emergency kit (Family Stores are a great place to find gently used bags!) include: three-day supply non-perishable food (Editor’s note: when packing canned foods, remember to pack a can opener) and water. You’ll also want a first-aid kit with the basics, such as bandages, gauze, masks, hydrogen peroxide and sanitizers.

Consider specific medicines for children and adults, as well as those that are consumed daily due to the illness or condition of a family member. The kit should also contain items that will be used for emergency care such as a change of clothing, blankets, a rain jacket, as well as safety supplies such as flashlight, knife, duct tape and batteries. Pack a photocopy of your documents and keep them in a Ziploc bag so that they don’t get damaged in case of water. Be prepared, be safe! 

For additional information on how to develop an emergency kit, go to ready.gov/kit.