Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Michael Petruccelli asks; How should I prepare for when tropical storm Isaac turns into a hurricane?


Michael Petruccelli says;  If you plan on staying in your home going to a relatives or a shelter you should prepare an emergency survival kit that provides your family’s needs for a minimum 3 days (according to the Red Cross)  to one week as suggested by the Pinellas County Emergency Services .
If you are staying home during a hurricane Here’s a list of items to consider for your survival kit. Keep items in airtight plastic bags or containers. Replace stored water every six months and double check battery expiration dates. 
Suggested items for a “Stay Kit”:

  • One-week supply of food that requires no cooking and fluids to drink
  • Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables
  • Nuts, beef jerky and trail mix
  • Raisins, peanut butter and granola bars
  • Formula or baby food
  • Canned juices or sports drinks
  • One gallon of water per person per day
  • Non-electric can opener
  • Utility knife
  • Cups, plates and plastic utensils
  • Cooler and ice
  • Pet food
  • First Aid Supplies
  • Adhesive bandages, gauze pads and tape
  • Soap and anti-bacterial hand gel
  • Antiseptic
  • Latex gloves, scissors and tweezers
  • Thermometer
  • Sunscreen
  • Over-the-counter pain reliever
  • Anti-diarrhea medicine and laxative
  • Anti-itch cream
  • Cooler(s) 
Tools and Emergency Supplies:
  • Flashlight and lanterns
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Extra batteries
  • Matches or lighter in a waterproof container
  • Compass and local maps with shelter locations
  • A shut-off wrench and other tools
  • Paper and pencil
  • Plastic sheeting and tarps
  • Elastic cords or rope
  • Tarps and plastic sheeting 
Sanitation:
  • Portable toilet (5-gallon bucket, heavy trash bags, chlorine bleach)
    • Toilet paper and moist towelettes
    • Feminine supplies
    • Personal hygiene items
  • Clothing and bedding
    • One complete change of clothing and shoes per person
    • Sturdy shoes or work boots
    • Rain gear
    • Blankets and sleeping bags
    • Sunglasses
  • Kids and Entertainment
    • Favorite nonperishable snacks
    • Powdered milk
    • Stuffed animal or favorite toy
    • Blanket and pacifier
    • Diapers and wipes
    • Card and board games
    • Books for all ages
EVACUATION KIT… WHAT TO TAKE

If you are evacuating to a public shelter –

Pack your essentials, but pack light as space is limited. It is possible you may only have a space that measures 5
feet by 2 feet. Remember, a public shelter is not a cruise ship, it is a life boat with the mission to save lives.
Suggested items for a “Go Bag”
• Medications and copies of prescriptions
• Nonperishable food
• Special dietary food that is nonperishable
• Several gallons of drinking water to keep in your vehicle. A minimum of one gallon per person.
• Bedding for a small space
• Infant or child necessities (wipes, diapers, bottles)
• Personal hygiene items
• Change of clothes
• Eyeglasses
• Quiet games, toys or reading materials
• Important papers and valid ID
• Cash and a phone list

If you are evacuating to stay with friends or relatives or in a Host Home

Take your “Go Bag” and ask in advance what kind of space you’ll have for your possessions and vehicles.

Prepare your home to leave
Regardless of where you are evacuating, before you leave your home, be sure to do the following:
• Take your valuables and important papers with you
• Turn off all utilities (water, electricity, gas) at the main switch
• Lock windows and doors
• Fill your gas tank
• Advise friends or relatives of where you are going