The disastrous impact of hurricanes like Katrina and more recently Hurricane Gustav reminded us all of the importance of being prepared for both man-made and naturally-occurring disasters.
This September is the sixth annual National Preparedness Month, a nationwide initiative sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to encourage all Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies.
In the spirit of National Preparedness Month, the Trumbull Office of Emergency Management encourages all Trumbull residents to prepare for emergencies in their home, and at work. For a short list, you should be prepared with:
- A battery-powered radio (tuned to WICC 600 AM)
- A flash light
- Extra batteries
- Water for three days. Have one gallon of water per person per day (two quarts for drinking, two quarts for sanitation and food preparation).
- Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables.
- Canned juices, milk and soup.
- Sterno to heat food.
- Vitamins
- Any special foods required for infants, elderly people or those on special diets.
- Vitamins
- Comfort foods such as cookies, hard candies, sweetened cereals, lollipops, instant coffee, and tea bags.
- A First Aid Kit with first aid manual, sterile gauze, adhesive tape, adhesive bandages, antiseptic tape, antibiotic cream, antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide), thermometer, plastic gloves, scissors, soap, etc.
- Required medications
- Blankets
The Department of Homeland Security provides a list of 30 Tips for Emergency Preparedness which will help you and your family become better prepared for an emergency.
For more information, please visit the Office of Emergency Management Website and www.ready.gov.