Emergency Preparedness Program

Prepare for an Emergency: Make a Kit

An emergency supplies kit is a collection of basic items that you will probably need in an emergency. The items are stored in containers that you can take with you if you need to evacuate. 

Types of items to include in your kit:	Why do I need an emergency supplies kit?
Water Food First aid supplies Non-prescription drugs Sanitary supplies Tools and emergency supplies Clothing and bedding Items for family members with special needs such as medical conditions, infants, elderly or disabled persons (diapers, prescription medications, extra eye glasses, etc.) Important family documents Entertainment items such as books and games	Help from local officials and relief workers may take hours or days. Basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or weeks.  You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and not be able to search or shop for supplies. A kit can help your family stay safe and be more comfortable during a disaster or other emergency.
How can children help?
Plan and assemble the kit, including books, games or toys. Remember to update the kit by replacing food, water and batteries as necessary. Plan and assemble kits for pets. (click here)
How to Talk to Children About Disasters. (click here)
Resources to Help You Make a Kit
For Home: Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit (FEMA) Get a Kit (Ready America) Disaster Supplies Kit (American Red Cross) Home Emergency Supplies (American Red Cross) Build a Kit (American Red Cross) Food and Water in an Emergency (FEMA)
For Work: Personal Workplace Disaster Supplies Kit (American Red Cross) Emergency Supplies at Work (Ready Business)
For Pets / Animals: Evacuation Essentials (American Veterinary Medical Association) Disaster Preparedness for Pets (The Humane Society of the U.S.) Emergency Preparedness for Animals (Macomb County Health Department)

Information is not intended to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice.  Links to external sites do not constitute endorsements by Macomb County.

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