In many cases, after a fire, natural disaster, serious storm, or other catastrophe, personal injuries can occur if homeowners are not prepared. According to the Florida Department of Health, every homeowner and tenant needs a disaster preparedness kit. This kit should contain everything you need to keep you and your family safe after a fire or other disaster.
When preparing your kit, consider what you will need. Write down everything you may require for 72 hours or so – the typical amount of time you may need to survive without basic services before they are reestablished. Write down everyone who may be in your family or who may be visiting your home at the time of the disaster and ensure you have enough provisions or everyone on your list.
Your disaster preparedness kit can be stored in a large plastic container or a duffel bag in the closet, in the basement, or under your bed. Make sure you have a list of everything in your kit inside the container and regularly check it to swap out any items that expire. Update your preparedness kit every few months, especially if your family changes.
According to the Florida Department of Health, some basic items that should be in your disaster preparedness kit include:
1) A well-stocked first aid kit.
You can purchase a kit at a store or assemble your own with bandages, antiseptic, safety pins, an instruction manual for common injuries, and more.
2) Food and water.
Pack nutritious and easy to prepare foods that don’t require heating as well as large containers of water. Make sure you have enough food and water for everyone in your home and potentially any guests for at least 72 hours. You may also want to include a camp stove if you want to be able to boil water and prepare some hot meals.
3) Any pet items.
If you have pets, make sure you have enough pet food, water, leashes, litter, and other pet supplies for at least 72 hours.
4) Medication.
In addition to basic pain medication, ensure that any prescription medication is available for anyone who needs it. The may also want an extra pair of prescription glasses or sunglasses on hand for anyone who normally wears contacts. Washing hands and putting in contacts may be difficult after a natural disaster.
5) Cash.
ATMs might not work after a serious disaster and family members may not be able to drive easily on streets filled with debris.
6) Basic tools.
You may need to complete basic repairs around your home, especially if windows or steps break. In addition, basic items such as flashlights, manual can openers, hammers, and screwdrivers can be immensely useful after a disaster.
7) Clothing and bed linens.
Have sleeping areas in the basement or other safe place, sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows available as well as changes of clothing for everyone in your family.
8) Baby supplies.
If there’s an infant in your family, have extra diapers, formula, wipes, and other supplies – enough to last for 72 hours.
9) Information and documents.
Have copies of your driver’s license, insurance documents, contact information for friends and family, and any other documents you may need. You may also want full written information about allergies, doctor contact information, and any health-related information you may need.
After a natural disaster, insurance claims and disputes can be problematic. If you have been injured in a hurricane or other natural disaster and are struggling to deal with the insurance claims process, contact Flaxman Law Group to find out if you have an insurance claim or an insurance dispute. Our attorneys can offer advice in a free accident consultation.