During National Preparedness Month, the Postal Service is encouraging employees to prepare or refresh their home emergency supply kit.
Such a kit is a collection of basic items to meet the needs of your family — including pets — for at least 72 hours.
These items should be packed in a portable container, such as a plastic bin or duffel bag, in the event you need to evacuate. Everyone in your household should know where the kit is kept.
At minimum, experts recommend that an emergency supply kit have the following:
• First-aid supplies;
• Medications and any needed medical items;
• One gallon of water per person, per day;
• Nonperishable, easy-to-prepare food;
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight and extra batteries;
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties;
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities);
• Cellphone with chargers and a backup battery;
• Copies of personal documents (medication lists and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed or home lease, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies); and
• Other items needed by family members and pets.
The USPS National Preparedness Blue page has more information.