Did You Know? Hurricane Season (emergency kit)

hurricane warning flag

Hurricane season is approaching, and this section of our newsletter will help to make sure you are fully prepared in case of an emergency.

This month’s topic of interest is creating your emergency kit.

An emergency kit is a toolbox that should be catered to each individual’s needs. It should contain items you will need in your daily life, and it is recommended that at minimum, you pack enough to last you three days to a week’s worth of necessities. It is important to consider that this emergency kit may be used during a shelter-in-place or when an evacuation occurs, so you want to have all possible items you may need in both cases. Always keep copies of important documents, your ID/license, and, if you have one, your Wallet Card! If you use an electric wheelchair, you may want to consider including backup walkers, canes, or wheelchairs in the case of evacuation or loss of electricity. Despite having batteries for flashlights and battery-powered radios, if you require devices like a hearing-aid or communication devices, you should pack extra batteries and chargers for those as well. Additionally, keep a supply of your prescription medication along with a list of the ones you take and the dosage of each in case you must move to an emergency shelter. Storms can get noisy, whether in your own home or in an emergency shelter; pack a pair of headphones to simulate a quiet environment if needed. Lastly, make sure to include others in your plan! If you live with family members make sure to have a kit that will sustain everyone in the case of an emergency. Also consider having multiple kits in different locations like in the house, your car, or even in neighbor’s or close friend’s and family’s houses. You can never be too prepared, and it is best to have a support network of people who know and can execute a plan with you.

For a comprehensive list of basic items to keep in your emergency kits, refer to this link. Furthermore, for more information on building your emergency kits in regard to specific needs, visit FEMA’s website for additional lists. Lastly, to view some informative videos from various people living with disabilities and how they prepare for emergencies, you can use this link as well. We are all in this together, so let’s stay informed, be supportive, and be prepared for this incoming hurricane season.

Over the next several months, we will have a new tip for you in each one of our newsletters.  Make sure to check back for more tips and preparations for the impending hurricane season!