National Preparedness Month: Build a Kit [SERIES]

As National Preparedness Month continues, officials around New Jersey are urging everyone to get ready for any emergency by putting together a kit.

Sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Preparedness Month began in 2004 as a way to encourage American to take steps to prepare for emergencies.

During Superstorm Sandy, many of us weren't ready for what effects would come our way. For some, the power was out for weeks, thousands went to shelters and others were stuck in the house without adequate supplies.

Leslie Terjesen, with the Ocean County Health Department, says common sense plays a key role when developing a disaster kit. Every member of the family should have access to it and know where it is.

Items recommended for a disaster supply kit include the following:

• One storage kit such as an old suitcase with wheelsB
• Basic food to survive for three days, such as peanut butter, canned tuna or other meats, nuts, canned fruit and crackers.
• One gallon of water per person per day
• Changes of clothes
• One emergency radio
• Three days worth of prescription medication, specialized medical needs and simple first aid supplies
• Flashlight
• Whistle
• Package of new batteries for radio and flashlight
• Cell phone and changer handy as disaster approaches

For more information, visit The Ocean County Health Department's website. For specifics on how to be better prepared, visit fema.gov.

• Part One:  Be Prepared
• Part Two:  Make a Plan