To help mark National Preparedness Month in September, the Postal Service is encouraging employees to prepare or refresh their home disaster kit.
A household disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your family may need in the event of an emergency. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days.
Your kit should include:
• One gallon of water per person per day for several days;
• Nonperishable, easy-to-prepare food and a manual can opener;
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight and extra batteries;
• Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes;
• First-aid supplies;
• Medications and any needed medical items;
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties; and
• Cellphone with charger and a backup battery.
Consider adding copies of personal documents such as medication lists and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed or home lease, passports, birth certificates and insurance policies.
Store these items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. Everyone in your household should know where the kit is kept.
The Postal Service’s Personal Preparedness Blue page and the Ready.gov website have more information.
