Be Prepared: Part 3

Week 3 and your emergency kit is taking form. If you've clicked on this link and haven't read the previous posts, please do. It's a weekly guide to putting together your 72 hour Emergency Kit and being prepared.

In Week 1, we covered water supply and a container. Week 2 was all about food and a plan. This week, we'll go over a first aid kit and providing for your pets.

Step 1: First Aid- You can pick up a ready made kit at Walmart/Target/Costco, or you can put one together yourself. If you are putting it together yourself, here are some items that should go in it:

- 2 pairs of disposable gloves

- sterile dressings to stop bleeding

- cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes to disenfect

- antibiotic ointment to prevent infection

- burn ointment

- adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes

- eye wash solution to wash eyes out or as general decontaminant

- scissors

- over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, antacids, laxative, anti-diarrhea medicine

- prescription medicines you take every day, such as insulin, heart medicine or asthma inhaler

- prescribed medical supplies such as glucose monitoring equipment or blood pressure cuffs

I also reccommend adding in the following

- sanitary napkins ( they act as a gauze/pad for wounds)

- super glue (to seal cuts that aren't deep)

- ace bandage

- medical tape

- q-tips

- tongue depressors (can be used as finger splints)

Step 2: Pets- Don't forget about your furry family members when it comes to emergencies. Make sure to always keep a collar with ID tag on it at all times. If they get loose or you aren't able to take them with you, there will be a way to possibly get them back home to you. Also, consider getting your pets microchipped.

Each pet should have a "go-bag" and a plan in case of evacuation. This should include:

- a sturdy leashes and pet carriers. A pillowcase is a good option for transporting cats and other small animals who cannot be leashed.

- Food, water and any medications for at least one week

-non-spill bowls, can opener and plastic lids if they will be eating canned food

- plastic bags, litter box and litter

- recent photo of each pet

- names and phone numbers of emergency veterinarian hospitals and local animal shelters

If you must leave your pet behind:

- On your front door or in a highly visable window, use chalk, paint or marker to write the number and types of pets in your residence. Include their location in your home and the date you evacuated.

- Leave plenty of water in a large, open container that cannot be tipped over.

- Leave plenty of food. If possible, leave it in timed feeders so they don't overeat.

- Do not tie up your pet in your home.