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What do bottled water, ready to eat food, matches, sturdy shoes, a local map and a manual can opener all have in common? They are just a few of the items that should be included in every home’s emergency kit. In honor of Nationals Preparedness Month, Marion County Emergency Management encourages all area residents to take a proactive approach and have the necessary items ready in ease of an emergency. Coordinator Jeff Anderson says when a disaster hits the area, first responders be on the scene but cannot reach everyone immediately. Therefore, each home should have the necessary supplies to sustain the family for at least three days.

Emergency Kits should include the following items:
• Water: 1 gallon per person per day
• Food: Ready-to-eat, just-add-water, canned and dried foods that are easy to store and prepare
• Manual can opener
• First Aid kit
• Essential medications
• Flashlight (with extra batteries)
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Whistle
• Tools
• Portable Television or Radio (battery-operated or manual)
• Batteries
• Cash in small denominations
• A copy of important documents & phone numbers
• Unscented liquid household bleach for water purification
• Personal hygiene items including toilet paper, feminine supplies, and soap
• Sturdy shoes
• Heavy gloves
• Warm clothes, a hat and rain gear
• A local map
• Prescription medicines
• Extra prescription eye glasses, hearing aid or other vital personal items
• Plastic sheeting, duct tape and utility knife for covering broken windows
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Extra keys to your house and vehicle
• Large plastic bags for waste and sanitation
• Special-need items for children and seniors or people with special needs
• Don’t forget water and supplies for your pets