Last week I had the opportunity to attend a community gathering in Rich Square—specifically in the Creecy community—to write a story for the paper. Though the main goal of the event was to bring neighbors closer together, another theme was to promote safety and wellness.

One of the groups represented at the event was the American Red Cross who were passing out free information. I picked up an “Emergency Supply List” pamphlet while I was there and thought I would share that information here. It’s something everyone should know, especially while we’re in the middle of hurricane season and anything can happen.

The pamphlet, which came from the Department of Homeland Security, is a part of their “Ready Campaign.” People are encouraged to prepare ahead of time before an emergency or disaster occurs.

A basic emergency supply kit is recommended to include the following:

Water (one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)

Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert (and extra batteries for both)

Flashlight with extra batteries

First aid kit

Whistle (to signal for help)

Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air), plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter-in-place)

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

Local maps

In addition to these basic items, there are other recommendations to consider, including an emergency supply kit, some of which are important depending on personal situation.

These suggestions include prescription medication and glasses, infant formula/food and diapers, pet food and extra water, important documents (copies of identification, bank records, insurance policies, etc) in a waterproof container, cash or traveler’s checks, emergency reference material, sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person, complete change of clothing (long sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes), fire extinguisher, matches in a waterproof container, feminine supplies and other personal hygiene items, paper cups/plates, plastic utensils, paper towels, books, games, and other activities for children.

According to the pamphlet, “Ready [Campaign] asks individuals to do three key things: get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan, and be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses.”

They also suggest making more than one emergency supply kit. You can have one at home and then another for your vehicle, workplace, or any other places where you spend a lot of time. More information can be found at www.ready.gov.

I’d like to thank the Red Cross representatives I met last week for taking the time to distribute this information along with other important safety tips. We never know what the day will bring when we wake up each morning, so it never hurts to be ready for anything.

I know I need to be better prepared. How about you?

Holly Taylor is a Staff Writer for Roanoke-Chowan Publications. Contact her at holly.taylor@r-cnews.com or by phone at 252-332-7206.