Prepare Your Family
To protect your family during a public health emergency, it is wise to have an Emergency Supply Kit prepared and in a safe place. Ideally, you need two kits, each stored in a water tight container. Keep one in your basement and the other in the trunk of your car. Your kits should include:
- A battery-powered radio and flashlight
- First aid kit, including mild pain relievers and antiseptic
- Bottled drinking water – a three day supply
- Additional beverages including fruit and vegetable juice, soda, sports drinks
- Canned food and a can opener
- Other non-perishable foods that require no refrigeration
- Salt and baking soda
- Sleeping bag, pillow, and blanket for each family member
- Paper and pencil to write information
- Small tool set
- Fire extinguisher
- Soap and towels
- Toilet paper and paper towels
- Bleach
- Extra set of car keys, credit card, cash on hand
- Change of clothing and shoes per person
- Medicine prescribed for family members
Additional supplies to have on hand include:
- Paper plates and cups
- Silverware
- Matches
- Tape
- Needle and thread
- Hand lotion
- Extra eye glasses
- Pre-moistened sheets
- Cotton balls
- Toiletry items
- A cooler and freezer packs
Be Alert
Since the terrorist attacks in New York City on September 11, 2001, emergency preparedness has taken on a new meaning. Consider the following safety tip suggestions:
Know Your Surroundings
- Be alert and aware of your surroundings. The very nature of terrorism suggest there may be little or no warning.
- Be careful when traveling. Be aware of unusual behavior. Do not accept packages from strangers. Do not leave luggage unattended.
- Learn where emergency exits are located. Think ahead about how to evacuate a building, subway, or congested public area in a hurry. Learn where staircases are located.
- Notice your immediate surroundings. Be aware of heavy or breakable objects that could move, fall, or break in an explosion.
Suspicious Mail
Characteristics of suspicious letters and packages:
- Inappropriate or unusual labeling
- Excessive postage
- Handwritten or poorly typed address
- Misspellings of common words
- Strange version or no return address
- Not addressed to a specific person
- Marked with threatening language
- Postmark different from return address