GETTING YOUR HOME READY
Emergency Supplies
Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for about
7 to 14 days, more if possible. Assemble a Family Emergency
Supplies Kit with items you may need both for your home and in an
evacuation. See pages 21 and 22 for a suggested list. Store separate
supplies for the evacuation kit in sturdy easy-to-carry containers
like backpacks, duffel bags or covered trash containers. Replace
these supplies periodically.
Keep important family documents in a waterproof and fireproof container or bank safe deposit box.
Water
Having a supply of clean water is very important. A normally
active person needs to drink at least 8 glasses of water each
day. During hot weather you will need to increase that
amount. Children, nursing mothers and sick people will need
more. You will also need water to fix meals and to wash. Keep at
least one gallon per person, per day. You should keep at least a
7 to 14 day supply of water for each member of your family. Don’t
forget water for pets.
If supplies run low, drink what you need today and try to find more for tomorrow. You can use less by doing less and staying cool.
How to Store Water: Keep your water in very clean plastic, glass, fiberglass or enamel-lined metal containers. Never use a container that has held poison. Plastic soft drink bottles are best. You can also buy food-grade plastic buckets or drums. Close water containers tightly, date them and keep in a cool, dark place. Change this water with fresh water every six months.