When did you last update your “Emergency Go Kit” ?

I don’t know why I wanted to post this, but I was inspired to review my “Emergency Go Kit” and I want to pass it on. Preparing an Emergency Go Kit in advance can save precious time if you must evacuate or seek shelter. Put the following items in a sturdy, easy-to-carry container such as a backpack or suitcase with wheels. Keep your kit in an easily accessible place. Add the following to your kit:

• At least a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day). Store in sealed, unbreakable containers.
• A three-to five-day supply of non-perishable canned food, and a non-electric can opener
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio
• Extra batteries
• Wrench and/or pliers to turn off utilities
• Whistle to signal for help
• First Aid kit
• Prescription medications for at least one week
• List of family physicians, important medical information, and the style and serial number of medical devices, such as pacemakers
• Cell phone charger or extra batteries and car charger, I also purchased a generator and have 3 days of fuel.
• Extra set of eyeglasses, or contact lenses and solution
• Rain gear, sturdy shoes, and a change of clothing
• Blankets, bedding, and/or sleeping bags
• Identification, credit cards, cash
• Photocopies of important family documents including bank and home insurance information
• Extra set of car and house keys
• Local maps
• N95 dust masks to help filter contaminated air
• Plastic sheeting, duct tape, and scissors to shelter in place
• Tools: screwdrivers, waterproof matches, a fire extinguisher, flares, plastic storage containers, needle and thread, pen and paper, a compass, garbage bags, moist towelettes, and regular household bleach
• Special items for seniors, family members with disabilities, infants, and young children
• Change batteries in all your equipment at least once a year. An easy way to remember is to do it when you turn your clocks back in the fall.

Special Items for Infants
• Formula, bottled water, bottles, nipples
• Jars of baby food and baby spoons
• Diapers and diaper rash ointment
• Medications
• Moist towelettes and hand sanitizer
• Blankets, pacifiers, and layers of clothing
• Sunhat in warm months, warm hat in cool months
• Several small, lightweight toys

Below are simple steps to take to ensure you and your family is prepared for an emergency:
• Teach your children how to make long-distance telephone calls and how to dial 911 for emergency assistance.
• Program emergency numbers into all phones.
• Pick two places where your family will reunite after an emergency: a place near your home, and a place outside the District in case you cannot return home after an emergency.
• Make sure everyone knows the addresses and phone numbers of both meeting places.
• Know and practice all possible exit routes from your neighborhood.
• Put important family records (birth certificates, healthcare records, passports) in a safe place, such as a fireproof and waterproof safe or a bank safety deposit box.
• Practice your plan with all household members.
• Include your children in your planning, practice your plans with them, and quiz them to make sure they understand what to do. Always stress that this is a “just in case” plan.
• Get a copy of your child’s school or daycare emergency plans.
• Make plans for where you can meet your child after an evacuation.
• Make sure that the school has up-to-date contact information for you and other family members.
• Authorize a friend or family member to pick up your child in an emergency if you are unable to do so.
• Identify an easily accessible location in your home to store your Emergency Kit and make sure everyone in the home is aware of the location. If you have young children, make sure your Emergency Kit includes toys, books, and other personal items for your child.

I believe we need to review these areas annually just as we change the batteries in our smoke detectors.