With all the news surrounding Hurricane Irene and warnings from Government officials to prepare for potential disaster, it is a lesson for all of us to be prepared in the event of an emergency. Especially for family caregivers responsible for seniors, aging parents, and people with special needs, an emergency disaster kit can help those you care for stay safe.

The US Department of Homeland Security suggests having a disaster supplies kit to prepare for emergencies such as natural disasters and terrorist attacks. The following list contains basic items that every emergency disaster kit should include. It is important to consider the area where you live and the special needs that residents may have (i.e.: special medical conditions, homebound residents, etc.):

• 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 and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and 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
• Cell phone, chargers and extra phone batteries already charged (in case there is no electricity to use chargers)

Additional items to consider for your emergency disaster kit can include:

• Prescription medications (including a current list with dosage and provider info)
• Prescription glasses
• Checklist/collection of important documents (preferably in a waterproof and portable container)
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Extra change of clothing

In addition to an emergency disaster kit, it is important to have a communications plan in the event of an emergency, including phone numbers of key family members and relatives to contact, neighbors that can assist aging parents or homebound loved ones in the event the family caregiver isn’t present, and contact information for medical providers.

Take steps now to keep yourself and your loved ones safe and prepared, in the event of an emergency. Learn more about the emergency preparedness efforts of the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services and the Department of Homeland Security by visiting ReadySanDiego.org or the County of San Diego’s website.