Storm Preparations!

Storm Preparations: Those Extra Precautions

By: Katherine Carter, Staff Writer

Make sure you've got a well-assembled first aid kit. The kit should include sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes, boxes of two-and four-inch sterile gauze pads, hypoallergenic adhesive tape, triangular bandages, several rolls of two-and three-inch sterile roller bandages, scissors, tweezers, needles, moistened towelettes, antiseptic, a thermometer, tongue blades, petroleum jelly or other lubricant, assorted sizes of safety pins, a cleansing agent or soap, latex gloves and sunscreen.

In addition, the kit should include the following non-prescription drugs: aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever, anti-diarrhea medication, an antacid, syrup of ipecac (so that vomiting can be induced if the Poison Control Center so advises), a laxative, activated charcoal (again, for use as indicated by the Poison Control Center), hemorrhoid medication, cough/cold/allergy medication, denture supplies (if applicable) and sanitary/incontinent supplies. Be sure that medicines for all the various age groups in your family are included so that everyone from children to senior adults will be protected.

Gather important paperwork like wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, social security cards and insurance policies and place them inside a waterproof container.

A preparedness suitcase should be assembled with enough contents for each person in the family. A suitcase or large plastic tub should be packed with cash (even though its inclusion will be probably be a last-minute addition), a first aid kit like the one mentioned above, a flashlight and batteries, a battery-operated radio and batteries, a personal list of medications for each person, large towels and washcloths, blankets and pillows, paper towels, a change of clothes, sturdy shoes (closed toe/heel), socks, a manual can opener, large and small trash bags and ties, a plastic bucket with a lid, bar soap, liquid detergent, toothpaste and toothbrush, toilet paper, tissues, disinfectant, rubber gloves, insect repellent, sun block, protective clothing/hat, wet wipes, cards, board games, toys and books.

Non-perishable food should be assembled and should include crackers, jelly, nuts, canned vegetables, canned juice, canned fruit, powdered milk, bread, peanut butter, honey, canned and fully cooked meats, protein snacks, and dried fruits.

A minimum two-week supply of water per person and/or pet should be purchased. Each person will require one gallon of water per day, and each pet will require one quart of water per day. Additionally, kerosene, gasoline, wood, pet food, pet medications, charcoal and matches should be gathered into one central location. If you have a charcoal or gas grill, it might come in handy for cooking outside if the electricity is out during or after the storm.

Develop a plan for your pet. If you're leaving and taking the pet, make sure you have a pet carrier. Also be aware that hurricane shelters do not accept pets.

Put together a list of relevant phone numbers and put this in your hurricane suitcase. Make sure you place important information and medication concerning the person for whom you are caring in a central location. This will be helpful to you not only in times of stress but will be extremely helpful should others have to step in and help out. Put all prescription medications and their instructions in the first aid kit. Make sure they are readily accessible.

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