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What to pack in an emergency kit

By
Real Estate Agent with Rozanski Realty

A second wave of swine flu could hit this fall, and health experts recommend creating an emergency kit if the outbreak is severe. Of course, it's a good idea to keep a kit for any emergency.

What you need for emergencies:

Food

At least three days' worth of nonperishable, ready-to-eat foods, such as canned goods, dry cereal, and peanut butter.

Water

At least one gallon per person per day for three days. Bottled water is best because it can be stored indefinitely at room temperature, if it remains properly sealed and is kept dry and away from direct sunlight.

First-aid kit

You can buy a kit or build your own. Include a first-aid manual, antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment, bandages, burn ointment, calamine lotion, cold packs, eye-wash solution, gauze, gloves, hydrocortisone cream, scissors, tape, a thermometer, and tweezers. Also include any prescription and over-the-counter medications your family might need:

Antihistamines for allergic reactions, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl Allergy and generic) or loratadine (Claritin and generic).

Pain relievers, including acetaminophen (Tylenol and generic), aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and generic) or naproxen (Aleve and generic). Children should not take aspirin, except with a doctor's recommendation.

Stomach and antidiarrhea remedies, including loperamide (Imodium and generic).

Antacids, including Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids, Tums, and generic.

Remember that drugs do expire; old drugs should not be used.

What you need for a flu outbreak

A two-week supply of food and water in case you're confined to your home. Also stock:

Fever reducers, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen.

Cough and cold medications containing chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine, oxymetazoline, and pseudoephedrine and lozenges with dyclonine, glycerin, or honey.

Electrolyte drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, to keep you hydrated.

Hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol, such as Purell, to kill viruses when soap and water aren't available.

Surgical masks with a rating from the FDA of at least N-95 to help prevent spreading the flu. Masks need to be replaced often and disposed of after use.

 

Source: http://www.consumerreports.org/health/healthy-living/health-safety/emergency-kits/overview/emergency-kits-ov.htm

 

Show All Comments Sort:
Vickie Osoria
Keller Williams Realty - Leland, NC

Never thought of stocking an emergency kit for a flu outbreak, but I suppose after reading your article, it's not a bad idea!  Thanks for sharing!

Feb 15, 2010 09:53 PM
Betsy Schuman Dodek
Washington Fine Properties - Washington DC Area Real Estate - Potomac, MD
SearchPotomacHomes.com

Gonna - thank you for this comprehensive list! This is a great reminder to get organized and prepared now!!!

Feb 15, 2010 09:54 PM
Coldwell Banker Cutting Edge
Coldwell Banker Cutting Edge - Grants Pass, OR
"Your Proactive, Trusted Real Estate Advisor"

Another outbreak simply does not sound like fun at all.  Good ideas on your post.

Feb 15, 2010 09:56 PM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Good tips. Thanks for sharing the list. Every family should be prepared for emergencies. In the past week, thousands of Maryland homes were without power for several days as a result of the blizzard.

Feb 15, 2010 09:57 PM