Hurricanes, blizzards, freezing temperatures, flooding and even tornadoes are all disasters Massachusetts and Rhode Island are familiar with. Preparing before the onset of a disaster helps to avoid the notoriously long lines at the grocery store with empty bread and milk shelves, and forget about finding portable generators at the hardware store. Having essential survival items ready to go is the key to weathering any storm.
What your kit should contain:
- 1 gallon of water per family member for at least 3 days
- Non-perishable food- 3 day supply
- Manual can opener
- First aid kit
- Pet supplies
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Candles and matches
- Battery-operated radio
- Portable generator and fuel
- Cell phone and car chargers
- Extra blankets
- Hand sanitizer
- Rope
- Duct tape
Have these items prepared in the event of an evacuation:
- Medications
- Photocopies of important documents (birth certificates, driver's licenses, health and property insurance, etc.)
- Important phone numbers (Red Cross, insurance agents, animal shelters, etc.)
- Digital home inventory and print out
- Cash (if the power is out, ATM's will not be accessible)
- Glasses, contacts and solution, and hearing aid batteries
Every emergency preparedness kit should be tailored to meet your family's needs. Store the items in a sturdy, waterproof container and keep where it is easily assessable in an emergency. It is also a good idea to keep a smaller, portable version in the car if you are caught away from home. Along with your important numbers, be sure to include ServiceMaster Dynamic Cleaning at (800) 865-5157. We are here for you after any disaster 24/7/365.
