SPOKANE, Wash. — Disaster preparedness is fundamental for putting yourself in the best position to stay safe during natural disasters, emergencies, or even evacuations.
One of the best ways you can do this is by creating an emergency kit so you can leave at a moment's notice. Meteorologist Thomas Patrick explains everything you need to know about putting together an emergency kit.
The emergency kit should be filled with everyday essentials that can help you survive. For example, if the power goes out, if you find yourself in the middle of a natural disaster or if you need to evacuate your home at a moment’s notice.
Some of the items you will need include:
- Backpack/storage
- First Aid Kit
- Band-aids, Gauze, Wipes
- Prescriptions
- Water - One gallon per person per day
- Non-Perishable Food
- Tissues, Toilet Paper, Hygiene products
- Flash Light
- Batteries, Phone Changer
- Sleeping Bag and/or Blankets
- Important Documents - Birth Certificate, Social Security Card, Passport, ID
- Cash
- Pet Supplies
While hurricanes are forecasted days in advance, many natural disasters in the Inland Northwest can hit at any time and you don't want to waste valuable time gathering items.
It's also very important to have a reliable and accurate source of weather information. If you have a favorite meteorologist, like Thomas Patrick, just ask and listen to what they have to say about an incoming storm.
The amount of misinformation on the internet makes this very challenging in 2024. So, it takes that extra bit of effort to seek the truth.
If you are prepared, and have the information to make critical decisions, you'll be in the best position possible to keep yourself and your family safe.
For more information on disaster preparedness and weather forecasts, you can go to ready.gov, weather.gov or, of course, your favorite local meteorologist is always glad to help out.