LEPC

Home Safety Kits

Home safety kits, which included plastic and duct tape, were suggested as needed supplies. For the past several years the emergency management office and the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) have been promoting the home safety kits as an all hazards approach to preparedness.

The purpose of a home safety kit is to have your emergency supplies in one place so that in the event of an emergency you can rapidly locate your emergency supplies. The home safety kit should include a radio with batteries, flashlight, first aid kit, plastic sheets, duct tape, scissors, water and snacks. The supplies can be used for a variety of emergency situations such as severe weather, tornados, chemical spills, power outages or even a terrorist attack. There are other items that you should also have on hand in your home. These would include food and water, blankets, etc.

Every family should develop an emergency action plan. Some of the most common hazards we face would include fire, severe weather, tornados, power outages and chemical emergencies. We also need to develop a communications strategy so family members can report their location and condition during a critical event.

What to do during a chemical emergency
Chemical Emergency Events will only affect a limited area.
  1. Close all windows and doors in your home or office.
  2. Turn off the thermostat.
  3. Move to an interior room with few windows.
  4. Seal off the doors and windows with plastic, duct tape or towels.
  5. Listen to the radio or television for further instructions.
  6. If you think you are being exposed to fumes, put a wet cloth over your mouth and nose.
  7. If you need help call 911
  8. When the "all clear" is issued, open all doors and windows, move outdoors until the building is aired out.
  9. If there is a major spill, officials may instruct you to leave the area.

For additional information contact your local emergency management office, the Red Cross, or the many websites that address homeland security, family preparedness and emergency management.