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Health & Fitness

Organizing for emergencies

Being prepared for an emergency is beneficial both practically and for peace of mind. When emergencies arise, it’s extremely helpful to have some semblance of provisions and information on hand. Whether you’re locked out, your car breaks down, or you’re suddenly rushing a loved one to the hospital, preparation ahead of time prevents panic in the moment.

These supplies do not need to take up lots of space. Only the essentials are required. Keep it small, simple, accessible, and easy to carry with you. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

For the home:

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Spare set of keys

A list and copies of ID and credit card information and numbers in case of loss or theft

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A list and pictures of all valuables inside the home

 

For the car:

Flashlight

Snacks and water

Blanket

First Aid Kit

Fully charged cell phone (and cell phone charger for the car)

 

For medical emergencies (complie this on just a few sheets of paper in a small file folder so it’s all together):

A list of your doctor(s) contact names and numbers.

A list of all medications including over-the-counter supplements

A brief medical history of any particular chronic issues (it’s easier to have this in writing so you don’t have to rely on your memory, especially under stress)

Copy of insurance information and next of kin

An Advanced Directive of how you wish to be treated if you are unresponsive or the name of someone who has permission or authority to speak on your behalf

 

Create a network of friends and family you can call on during an emergency. With everyone’s permission, keep this list of contacts and phone numbers somewhere handy: on the fridge, in your glove compartment, on your cell phone.

 

With a little research, it’s easy to assemble the staples you’d need for any emergency situation (check out the Red Cross or FEMA websites). Even easier, kits are available for purchase online or at local stores and only require replacing any expired items like food or the water over time.

No one wants to think about disaster striking. By planning ahead, you won’t have to; you’ll simply be ready in case it does.  

Do you have other emergency supply recommendations? Share them in the comments below!

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