PEARL – Many times, survival from severe weather depends upon awareness, preparation, what to do during the event and safe water and food handling after the event. Loss of electricity for a prolonged duration can be critical if you are not prepared. Help protect your family against potential weather disasters and emergency situations by compiling an emergency supply kit.

 Make sure your disaster supply kit has life sustaining items such as non-perishable food and water for at least three to five days. If your supply kit includes perishable items, be sure to change or replace them every six months.

A Disaster Supply Kit should include the following:

n  Flashlight(s) with extra batteries.

n  Portable radio with extra batteries.

n  NOAA Weather Radio.

n  Non-perishable food for at least three days.

n  Bottled water (one gallon per person per day).

n  First Aid kit with prescription medications.

n  Bedding and clothing for each family member.

n  Blankets and towels.

n  Plastic dishes and eating utensils.

n  Rain jackets and pants.

n  Sunscreen, sunglasses and mosquito repellant.

n  Baby supplies such as food, diapers and medication.

n  Pet supplies such as food, leash, carrier and vaccination records.

n  Sanitary supplies.

n  Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, cleanser, bleach, towelettes, toilet paper, trash bags, feminine hygiene products.

n  Copies of important documents.

n  Driver’s license, SS card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, medical records, family pictures, etc.

n  Cash (enough to fill up your car with gas) and traveler’s checks.

n  Emergency generator.

Governor Haley Barbour declared Feb. 22- 26 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Mississippi. For more information, contact MEMA External Affairs at 866-920-MEMA (6362), or visit us on-line at www.msema.org.