During National Preparedness Month, the Postal Service is encouraging employees to refresh their home emergency supply kit — including pet supplies, if necessary — by closely reviewing expiration dates.
An emergency supply kit is a collection of basic items to sustain everyone in the household for 72 hours. Items should be stored in airtight plastic bags and put in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
At a minimum, experts recommend kits have the following:
• One gallon of water per person, per day;
• Nonperishable, easy-to-prepare food;
• Medications and any needed medical items;
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight and extra batteries;
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation);
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities);
• Cellphone with chargers and a backup battery; and
• Copies of personal documents (medication lists and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed or home lease, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies).
The USPS National Preparedness website has more information, including easy-to-follow checklists on personal preparedness.
