Hurricane Irma’s potential to affect the local area will remain unclear a while longer.  However, it is not too soon to scout around and make a list of what you may want and need in case emergency supplies and family preparedness items are needed.

In a morning email to local officials and local preparedness teams, the Director of Emergency Operations for Henderson – Vance County, Brian Short, provided the list of items seen below.

Short said, “Let me be clear, I am in no way saying that everyone should run out now and buy everything on the list, however people should begin looking around the house to see which of these items they already have and be thinking about what they may need. We will continue to keep everyone informed and will forward along additional information as it is received.”

Short said, “…we simply should not ignore the potential of this system and we should not wait until the last minute to prepare.”

Recommended Family Preparedness Items

The best time to assemble a three-day emergency supplies kit is well before you will ever need it. Most people already have these items around the house and it is a matter of assembling them now before an evacuation or State of Emergency order is issued. Stocking up now on emergency supplies can add to your family’s safety and comfort during and after a
disaster. Store enough supplies for at least three days, preferably seven days, in one place.

Start with an easy to carry, water tight container – a large plastic trash can will do, or line a sturdy cardboard box with a couple of trash bags. Next gather up the following items and place them in your kit:

Essentials

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day (a week’s supply of water is preferable)
• Water purification kit or bleach
• First aid kit and first aid book
• Pre-cooked, non-perishable foods, such as canned meats, granola bars, instant soup & cereals, etc.
• Baby supplies: formula, bottle, pacifier, soap, baby powder, clothing, blankets, baby wipes, disposable diapers, canned food and juices
• Non-electric can opener
• Anti-bacterial hand wipes or gel
• Blanket or sleeping bag per person
• Portable radio or portable TV and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Essential medications
• Extra pair of eyeglasses
• Extra house and car keys
• Fire extinguisher – ABC-type
• Food, water, leash and carrier for pets
• Cash and change
• Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes

Sanitation Supplies

• Large plastic trash bags for waste, tarps and rain ponchos
• Large trash cans
• Bar soap, shampoo and liquid detergent
• Toothpaste and toothbrushes
• Feminine hygiene supplies
• Toilet paper
• Household bleach
• Rubber gloves
• Don’t forget your pets when getting prepared!!!