RENO --  This time each year, Americans are reminded of what they can do to prepare for disasters or emergencies. In honor of National Preparedness Month, each week in September, Washoe County Emergency Management will distribute personal preparedness tips to help you and your family be prepared: make an emergency kit, make an emergency plan, stay informed and get involved.

Preparedness Tip #1: Make an Emergency Kit! An emergency kit is simply a collection of basic items you may need in the event of an emergency. The items in this kit will be necessary if you will need to shelter-in-place or evacuate. Assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency, and update annually. Store supplies in an easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Include items such as:

• At least a 72-hour supply of water (one gallon per person per day). Identify the storage date and replace every six months.
• At least a 72-hour supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food. Learn more about putting together an emergency stockpile with healthy food at: http://www.getreadyforflu.org/new_pg_advice_healthystockpile.htm
• Non-electric can opener.
• Change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for every person in your household.
• Blankets and/or sleeping bags.
• First aid kit and prescription medications.
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries.
• Credit cards and cash.
• Extra set of car keys.
• List of important family information; the style and serial number of medical devices.
• Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members.
• Don’t forget Fido and Fluffy! Include dry pet food, kitty litter, medications and water.
  
  

For more information about building your emergency kit, please visit: http://www.washoecounty.us/em/supplykit.html

To review preparedness tips, visit www.washoecounty.us or follow us on twitter and facebook.