I received a big tri-fold from my utility company: “Do You Have A Plan To Stay Safe During WILDFIRE SEASON? Here is their emergency supply kit checklist:
- Cash
- Flashlights
- Blankets
- Whistle — to let people know where you are if you’re trapped
- N95 rated dust mask
- Fire extinguisher (for small fires if necessary) Class ABC
- Radio — battery powered or hand-crank
- Mobile phone and charger(s)
- Extra batteries — (for everything)!
- Drinking water — suggested is one gallon per person per day for at least five days
- Water purification tablets
- Food — non-perishable and easy to prepare without power
- Medication — prescription and non-prescription
- Generator — for devices dependent on electricity & batteries — such as breathing machines, power wheelchairs, etc. Chances are if the power is cut in an emergency, there won’t be exceptions for registered “Medical Baseline” customers (folks who depend on power for life-sustaining equipment)
- Eyeglasses
- First aid kit — bandages, antiseptics, gauze, tourniquet supplies, etc.
- Waterproof matches
- Tools — Nylon rope, work gloves, etc. (in the event that people might need to be rescued)
- Pet supplies — crates, food & water, medicines, harness & leashes (I keep extra in case of any stray animals), microchip numbers, mild sedative (I don’t like to give these, but if your house is on fire, it might be necessary)
Prior to any event:
- Designate an emergency meeting location
- Be aware of anyone in your neighborhood who is non-ambulatory, seniors, etc. who might require assistance
- Know how to open your garage door manually
- Hard copy of emergency phone numbers
Emergency kits are available and cost anywhere from $25. to $200.+ This is what I did, and then added a couple items. If you go this route, don’t forget to swap out batteries periodically, and test your fire extinguisher to make sure you know how to use it.
Stay SAFE!