Personalize Your Emergency Kit
If you’ve been reading this guide and yelling, “This is bird erasure! Why don’t they care about the needs of my parrot!?” we totally understand where you’re coming from. We have excluded so many things that are important to people. That’s why you’re building the kit and we’re just making suggestions!
Start with these basics, but fill in the gaps to finish your kit. Consider your personal needs and the needs of those around you. Pay extra attention to any medical issues or mobility challenges that may affect your ability to shelter safely.
If sheltering at home is not feasible, contact your county to locate the closest designated emergency shelter, and ask if assistance would be available to transport you to it in the event of a disaster.
Different regions of the US are more likely to have some disasters than others, so it’s a good idea to gear your kit toward the disasters that are most likely for your location. For example, dry climates that are prone to drought might call for extra water, goggles, face masks, and other coverings to protect you from wind and dust. Colder climates would benefit from storing extra warm clothing, blankets, and instant hand warmers.
If you have the resources, consider your community as well. If you’re getting better at preparing, offer to share your knowledge with your neighbors. Online networking platforms are a great place to discuss progress and share questions. More likely than not, some of your neighbors may struggle with the same preparation challenges you are! Developing a network of preparedness now will also allow you to help each other during crises.
Look for ways to reach out and offer support to those in need. Remember to ask for help when you need it. When it comes to natural disasters, we’re all in this together.
