Preparing an emergency kit is a great way to prepare for hurricanes, natural disasters, or other emergency situations. With an emergency kit, you reduce the stress about gathering things you need while a disaster is knocking at your door. Instead, you can run, grab your kit, and head out the door at the first sign of danger heading your way. In a way, emergency kits put your mind at ease. In fact, once you make them, you’ll only have to review the kit about once a year to make sure all of the items are not expired and in good condition.
The actual grab and go kit should not be too big and should be easy to carry. In fact, a backpack can be the perfect emergency kit. A backpack is big enough to hold necessities, but small enough that it won’t impede evacuation and/or survival. Since you wear it on your back, it frees up your hands and arms which you can use to assist yourself and others during emergencies, and there is less chance that you’ll forget it somewhere.
What should be in an emergency kit? Until scientists find a way to make bottomless bags that can store anything and everything, only the basic necessities should be in the kits. During emergency situations, one of your goals is to survive, and the kit should have items that will assist you and increase your chances to survive. Water and non-perishable items are two of the most important items that you should have in your kit. In case you are stuck somewhere for days or even longer, having water and food from your kit will keep you hydrated and strong until rescue arrives. Always grab any medications and put them in the kit since you don’t know how long you will be out of the property.
Ready.gov/kit, the official website of the United States Homeland Security, provides a lot of emergency response information and goes into details about the basic necessities that should be in an emergency kit. Other considerations during a storm that causes wind damage and flooding include planning during COVID-19 and for those with disabilities. The subject of emergency preparedness is broad and critical to minimize injury and minimize property damage.
Flooding and fires from hurricanes and other natural disasters can cost you deeply depending on a number of factors involved. Review your property insurance and life insurance policies at least annually with your carrier to ensure you are covered. For personal safety and building safety, disaster damage restoration is best left to professionals like Service Team of Professionals (STOP).
STOP Metrowest is an IICRC Certified Firm – safe, quality, and compassionate service is our priority! We provide 24/7 emergency water extraction and restoration of any water damage related issues in Framingham MA or other Metrowest MA communities like Sudbury MA, Holliston MA, and Westborough MA. Call Service Team of Professionals (STOP MetroWest 508-841-3082). Visit our webpage at STOP Metrowest.
