Be Prepared WNC: Build Your Family’s Emergency Preparedness Kit Now

WNC -- September 17, 2024: Emergencies can strike without warning, and in the beautiful but unpredictable terrain

of Western North Carolina, being prepared is essential. Whether it’s a snowstorm in the mountains, flash floods, power outages, or other unexpected events, having a well-stocked emergency preparedness kit can make all the difference for your family's safety and comfort.

Why Prepare Now?

In Western North Carolina, natural disasters can happen at any time. Weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, and it's crucial to be ready. Waiting until the last minute to gather supplies can lead to shortages and unnecessary stress. Proactively assembling your kit now ensures you’re prepared when it matters most.

What Should Be in Your Emergency Preparedness Kit?

Your family’s emergency preparedness kit should include enough supplies to last for three to seven days. Here’s a checklist of essential items to consider:

Water: At least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Don’t forget to consider your pets' needs as well.

Food: Non-perishable food items that can sustain your family for several days. Consider high-energy foods like granola bars, canned goods, dried fruits, and nuts. Remember to include a manual can opener and pet food if you have animals.

Medications and First Aid Supplies: A basic first aid kit, along with any prescription medications or over-the-counter medicines that your family may need. Don’t forget to include items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and allergy medications.

Personal Hygiene Items: Include toiletries such as soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, feminine products, diapers (if needed), and any other essential hygiene items.
Clothing and Blankets: Extra clothing, sturdy shoes, rain gear, and blankets or sleeping bags for each family member.

Tools and Supplies: A flashlight, batteries, portable phone chargers, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, multi-purpose tools, duct tape, garbage bags, and local maps.
Important Documents: Copies of important documents like identification, medical records, insurance policies, and bank account records should be stored in a waterproof container.

Cash: ATMs may not be working during an emergency, so having some cash on hand is a good idea.

Pet Supplies: Food, water, medications, leashes, carriers, and any other items your pets may need.

Entertainment and Comfort Items: Books, games, and toys to keep everyone occupied and calm, especially children.

Stay Informed: Check Local Emergency Alerts

One of the most important steps in emergency preparedness is staying informed about potential threats. Check for local emergency alerts provided by your county. Each county in Western North Carolina has its own system for issuing alerts and warnings, so be sure to sign up for notifications. You can also follow local news stations, the National Weather Service, and trusted social media channels for real-time updates.

Practice Makes Perfect

An emergency kit is only as good as your ability to use it. Regularly review and update your kit to ensure all supplies are fresh and tailored to your family's needs. Conduct family drills so everyone knows the emergency plan, including where to meet and how to communicate if separated.

Don’t Wait—Prepare Today

Building an emergency preparedness kit is a simple yet crucial step in protecting your family in Western North Carolina. Don’t wait until an emergency is on the horizon. Take action now to ensure you have all the supplies and information you need to stay safe and secure, no matter what comes your way. Remember, preparation is the key to peace of mind.

WNCTimes

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