Ready for a Michigan Winter? Here are Tips on Preparing an Emergency Kit

December 27, 2017

Now that summer is fading away, it’s time to prepare for fall/winter. That means pulling together an emergency supply kit in case of a severe storm that takes down power lines, results in structural damage or causes flooding. The following is a two-part emergency supply kit list based on FEMA recommendations.

The first list is for emergencies when you can still stay in your home, such as when the power goes out. The second list consists of items to quickly grab in the event of an emergency that requires you to leave your home with little notice.

Make sure everyone in your family knows where these emergency supplies are located. We recommend storing the first group of items on a shelf in your pantry or garage where they can be easily accessed. Keep the items in the second list in a waterproof container or bag near the garage door, and make sure everyone knows to grab it if your family must leave immediately.

LIST 1 – Basic Supplies in Your Home
  • Radio – Battery-powered or hand-crank radio tuned to a local news station
  • NOAA weather radio – hand-crank or battery type
  • Flashlights – one for each member of the family TIP: Include extra batteries for the above items.
  • First aid kit -If you want to create your own, the Red Cross provides a recommended list of items to include: http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomy
  • Whistle – to use to call for help
  • Wrench or pliers – use to turn off gas valves and other utilities
  • Food – Keep enough canned and other non-perishable foods to cover three days. Put aside dog food and treats for your pet. Include formula for infants.
    TIP: Don’t forget to include a manual can opener!
  • Water – plan on providing one gallon of water per day for each member of your family to use for drinking and minimal cleaning. Keep at least a three days’ supply on hand. TIP: Don’t forget to include water for your pets.
  • Sanitation and hygiene items – diapers for infants, feminine products and personal items, such as soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Shelter supplies – Plastic sheeting, dust masks and duct tape to create a temporary shelter free from dust and other contaminates.
  LIST 2 – Emergency Supplies for the Road
  • Sanitation and hygiene items – (see above)
  • Prescription drugs – for family members and pets.
  • Prescription glasses and contact lenses
  • Important family documents – include paperwork such as insurance policies, bank and credit card account info, emergency contact lists, prescription information, etc.
  • Warm clothing – including layered clothing, hats and gloves
  • Extra blankets or sleeping bags
  • Cash – As seen in the recent storms in Florida and Texas, when the power is out nothing works, like ATM’s and credit card readers. You may need to buy gas or food.
  • Maps of local area

If you have any questions about other ways you can prepare your home for an emergency this winter, please call us at (844) 698-4445 or contact us through our website.