DHSS Press Release |
Date: September 29, 2005 DHSS-93-2005 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EVERY HOUSEHOLD NEEDS AN EMERGENCY SUPPLIES KIT
Assembling a household emergency supplies kit is one of the best things Delawareans can do to prepare for emergencies, according to Delaware Health and Social Services' Division of Public Health (DPH). DPH is responsible for health issues during weather and disaster situations.
DPH recommends that residents obtain an easy-to-carry waterproof container and pack it with non-perishable food, drinks, contact numbers and information, and other items. Kits should be stored in a cool, dry place and out of reach of children. Household emergency supply kits should contain:
- A three-day supply of water per person (one gallon of water per person per day to use for drinking and food preparation or sanitation). Very hot temperatures can double the amount of water needed and individual needs vary. Keep bottled water in its original container and do not open until needed.
- Replace bottled water every six months.
- A three-day supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food per person. Pack ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables, soup and juices, and high-energy foods. Avoid salty foods that cause thirst. Remember a manual can opener, cooking utensils and disposable silverware.
- Include napkins, paper towels, moist towelettes and plastic garbage bags.
- Household liquid bleach that contains 5.25 percent sodium hypochlorite (only this type of bleach can be used to disinfect water, should it be needed for drinking). Instructions for purifying water are listed on the DEMA website. Print the directions out and keep them in your kit.
- Matches packed in a waterproof container and cans of Sterno® for heating food.
- A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes for every family member.
- Blankets, sleeping bags, and pillows.
- A first aid kit, prescription medications, copies of prescriptions, and over-the-counter medications.
- Duct tape (2-3 rolls) and 5 yards of plastic in case officials advise sealing exterior doors.
- A battery-powered radio or television, flashlight and extra batteries for both.
- Hearing aid batteries, eye glasses and contact lens solutions.
- Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.
- An extra set of car keys.
- Tools, such as pliers and a hammer.
- Cash and coins.
- Photocopies of important family documents (stored in a waterproof container), including each family member's social security card, drivers' licenses, birth and marriage certificates, and passports. Also include a list of bank account and credit card account numbers and companies, and photocopies of credit and identification cards. Don't forget a list of family physicians, their phone numbers, and photocopies of insurance cards, and contact information for family, friends and business associates.
- Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so.
For more information about assembling your household disaster kit, please contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) website: www.fema.gov or call FEMA at 1-800-480-2520, or visit the American Red Cross' website: www.redcross.org or call your local American Red Cross chapter.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
