Washoe County residents should have an emergency kit

County Emergency Manager reminds residents how to prepare for an emergency.

Reno, Nevada. Sept. 9, 2015. September is National Preparedness Month and Washoe County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is reminding residents what to do to prepare for disasters and emergencies. Each week in September, Washoe County Emergency Management is distributing personal preparedness tips to help people prepare by making emergency plans, assembling emergency kits and staying informed.

Preparedness Tip #2: Make an Emergency Kit: An emergency kit is simply a collection of basic items you may need in the event of an emergency. You can purchase a ready-made kit or assemble your own at one of the large box stores. The items in this kit will be necessary if you will need to shelter-in-place or evacuate. Assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency and update it annually. Store supplies in easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Include items such as:

• At least a 72-hour supply of water (1 gallon per person per day). Identify the storage date and replace every six months
• At least a 72-hour supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food
• Non-electric can opener
• Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes (close-toed) for every person in your household
• Blankets and/or sleeping bags
• First aid kit and prescription medications
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
• Cash (in the event of a power outage, you will not be able to use debit or credit cards)
• Extra set of car keys
• List of important family information (birth certificates, insurance information); the style and serial number of medical devices
• Entertainment – games and books
• Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members

It is important to note, items included in an emergency supply kit will vary based on individual and family needs. If possible, it is also a good idea to create a smaller emergency kit to keep in your vehicle and/or workplace in the event you are unable to make it home immediately after an emergency or disaster. For more information about building your emergency kit and to review preparedness tips, please visit http://www.readywashoe.com/ .