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EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: What to have in case of severe weather emergency

It is important to be able to provide for yourself and your family following a severe weather emergency, as it may be tough for first responders to get to you.

TYLER, Texas — Emergency supply kits are essential when the threat of severe weather is looming in the area.

In some instances, having a emergency preparedness kit can be the difference in life or death.

It is important to be able to provide for yourself and your family following a severe weather emergency, as it may be tough for first responders to get to you immediately. A good supply of emergency preparedness items will ensure you and your family’s immediate needs are taken care of.

So, what do you need in your emergency kit:

  • First Aid kit
  • Cash (power outages mean banks and ATMs may be unavailable)
  • Road maps 
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Flashlight 
  • Extra batteries
  • Important documents and records (Photos, IDs, proof of residence, etc)
  • Three-day supply of non-perishable food items
  • One gallon of bottled water per person, per day
  • Coolers for food and ice storage
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Blankets
  • Sleeping bags
  • Extra clothing
  • Extra medications and prescriptions
  • Hearing aids and other specialty medical items
  • Eyeglasses and sunglasses 
  • Toilet paper
  • Clean-up supplies
  • Duct tape
  • Tarp
  • Rope
  • Can opener
  • Knife
  • Tools
  • Booster cables
  • Baby, elderly and pet supplies if necessary
  • Cell phone chargers
  • Family communication plan with emergency contact information
  • Maps of the area

Your supplies should be kept in water resistant, easy-to-lift containers can be moved quickly, if necessary. A supply kit is appropriate for severe weather events, as well as other emergencies.

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