NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management is offering some simple steps to help New Jersey residents prepare for the unforeseen as well as reduce stress and confusion during an actual emergency.  The basics of preparedness for virtually all hazards are the same:  Get a Kit, Make a Plan and Stay Informed.  Following the appropriate steps and being ready “now” means that residents will be ready for any disaster or crisis that may affect New Jersey.

The following are some quick tips for emergency preparedness:

“GET A KIT” of Emergency Supplies

ITEMS FOR YOUR HOME

• Three days’ supply of canned, non-perishable, ready-to-eat FOOD
• Three days’ supply of WATER (a total of three gallons per family member)
• Battery–operated RADIO and extra batteries or a wind up RADIO
• FLASHLIGHT and extra batteries
• One week’s prescription MEDICATIONS
• FIRST AID KIT
• Personal TOILETRIES
• Non-electric CAN OPENER and UTENSILS

SPECIAL NEEDS items:

• Infant CARE ITEMS
• Items for ELDERLY family members
• Items for relatives with DISABILITIES
• CASH or TRAVELERS CHECKS
• Store important DOCUMENTS in a waterproof, safe location

IN CASE YOU NEED TO EVACUATE

• Keep a half-gallon of GAS at all times
• Every family member must carry CONTACT INFORMATION:
• All phone numbers at work, school, etc. for every family member
• The name and number of a relative who lives out-of-state, to call in case your family gets separated.

“MAKE A PLAN” for Yourself, Your Family or Your Business

• Meet with the members of your household or office
• Talk about the types of disasters that are most likely to happen in your area
• Take time to explain the dangers of emergency incidents to children
• Discuss why everyone needs to prepare for a disaster
• Address any special needs concerns in the event of an emergency
• Build an emergency contact phone list
• Make provisions for pets
• Remember to establish and share emergency incident responsibilities
• Emphasize that teamwork and staying calm are key

STEP THREE: “STAY INFORMED” of Possible Threats

It is important to know about the risks that may happen in your community, and to know whether an emergency is imminent or is already taking place.

Learn about the local radio and TV stations you should tune into for emergency alerts and official instructions.  Learn about the disaster plans for your Workplace, your children’s School or Day Care Center, and Other Places where your family spends time.

For more information regarding emergency preparedness log onto:

http://www.ready.nj.gov or Follow NJOEM on Twitter @ njoem2009