Building An Emergency Preparedness Kit Wednesday, March 1, 2006 hay Bits Tu MfMEV) WW AE = v D))) a aK i) Shaq MNduttaZy \ Building An Emergency PreparednessKit (NAPSA)—If you don’t think it’s important to be ready for a disaster before it strikes, you may want to check out FEMA’s Web site. It reads: “You may need to survive on your own after a disaster. Basic services such aselectric- ity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cutoff for days, or even a weekorlonger.” Fortunately, being ready “to survive on your own”can be as simple as stockpiling some food, water(plan on a gallon per person per day) and other important items in an emergency kit. Here’s a look at what else you might need: Health—Pack plenty of BandAids, antiseptic, bandages and gauze. Also, if you or your family members take medication, keep an extra week’s worth on hand. Communications—Keep a charged cell phone ready in case a disaster strikes, but remember that something as simple as a whistle can be a means of communication, too. In addition, a battery-operated radio can help you get important disaster or storm updatesfrom officials. Documents—Include multiple copies of important documents such as birth certificates, health insurance information and identification in your kit, as well as extra cash and a credit card. Tools—Pack a multi-tool. It saves space and can comein handy in a variety of situations. For example, the Mountaineer, made by Sheffield Mfg., has differentsized screwdrivers, pliers, wire cutters, a saw, and a bottle and can A) An emergencykit should include water, food, a multi-tool and waterproof flashlight, among otheritems. opener, among other features. It’s also lightweight and comes with a D-ring that allows it to be clipped to just about anything (including an emergencykit). Light—Since manydisasters revolve around rain or flooding, it’s a good idea to pack a flashlight that can take getting wet. GreatLITE makes a waterproof, battery-operated one called Marine Lamp. It features a floatable, lightweight plastic body and is weather resistant. Of course, a well-packed emergency kit only helps if you can find it quickly. So be sure to keep the kit in an easily accessible place and let each memberof your household know whereit’s stored. That way you'll be ready to go on a moment’s notice, should an emergencyarise. For more information, visit www.sheffield-tools.com and www.great-lite.com. --- PHOTOS --- File: 20190816-165113-20190816-165112-69010.pdf.jpg --- FILES --- File: 20190816-165112-69010.pdf