Severe Weather Kits Cheat Sheet: Essential Items for Safety and Preparedness

Severe weather can strike unexpectedly, making it crucial to be prepared. Assembling a comprehensive emergency kit ensures you have the necessary supplies to stay safe during such events.

Essential Items for Your Emergency Kit

1. Water: Store at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation. (ready.wv.gov)

2. Food: Maintain a three-day supply of non-perishable food items. (ready.wv.gov)

3. Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: Keep a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert to receive weather updates. (ready.wv.gov)

4. Flashlight: Ensure you have a reliable flashlight with extra batteries. (ready.wv.gov)

5. First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, and any necessary prescription medications. (ready.wv.gov)

6. Whistle: Use it to signal for help if needed. (ready.wv.gov)

7. Dust Mask: Helps filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place. (ready.wv.gov)

8. Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags, and Plastic Ties: For personal sanitation needs. (ready.wv.gov)

9. Wrench or Pliers: To turn off utilities if necessary. (ready.wv.gov)

10. Manual Can Opener: For opening canned food items. (ready.wv.gov)

11. Local Maps: To navigate if GPS is unavailable. (ready.wv.gov)

12. Cell Phone with Chargers and Backup Battery: To maintain communication. (ready.wv.gov)

Additional Considerations

• Infant Needs: If you have a baby, include formula, diapers, and wipes. (lifelanes.progressive.com)

• Pet Supplies: Ensure you have food, water, and medications for your pets. (lifelanes.progressive.com)

• Cash: In case ATMs and credit card machines are down. (lifelanes.progressive.com)

• Important Documents: Store copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof container. (lifelanes.progressive.com)

Best Practices for Assembling Your Kit

• Storage: Use airtight plastic bags and store your kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. (ready.wv.gov)

• Regular Updates: Check and replace batteries in your weather radio, flashlights, and other devices regularly. (weather.gov)

• Family Plan: Ensure all family members know where the kit is stored and have a plan for emergencies. (weather.gov)

Conclusion

Being prepared for severe weather is essential for safety. By assembling a comprehensive emergency kit and following best practices, you can ensure you're ready to face any unexpected weather events.

Highlights:

• Amid Major U.S. Storm Warnings, Experts Share Tips on How to Best Prepare, Published on Friday, March 14