BOISE -The return of fall colors is a signal that cold, dark days are coming. AAA is sharing some tips to check or create your emergency kit, both for your home and vehicle.
“When things aren’t going well, having everything you need in one place can help prevent panic and bad decision-making,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “With today’s nice weather, we may not see much of a reason to prepare right now, but you need a plan in place before challenges arise.”
AAA reminds Idahoans that creating an emergency kit can be done in a budget-friendly way, a little at a time. Here are some items to keep in mind:
- A minimum three-day supply of food and water for each person (one gallon of water per person, per day)
- Canned goods, which allow you to eat meals even without a heat source
- A flashlight with fresh batteries
- A first-aid kit (check expiration dates and replace medications as needed)
- Travel-sized hygiene products
- Extra cash
- Basic tools
- Garbage bags, dust masks, plastic sheeting, and duct tape
- Wet towelettes
- Hard copies and electronic records of important documents
- Comfortable shoes
- A backpack
- Flares or reflectors
- Blankets
- A pen and a notepad
“Identify multiple routes away from your home to a point of safety and establish rendezvous points for friends and family members to gather in an emergency,” Conde said. “When times are at their worst, having a few items like playing cards, travel-sized board games and coloring books can provide a helpful distraction and boost morale.”
Individual circumstances vary and may require additional planning, such as coolers to store medications or the use of a backup generator. Periodically check to ensure everything your family needs is ready, just in case.