September is National Preparedness Month and the staff of Allen & Furr encourages individuals, families and businesses to take this 
opportunity to prepare for emergencies. The annual event serves as a reminder that we should take action to plan, prepare and stay informed about emergency situations.
When preparing for emergencies, first consider basic needs like fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. The following items are recommended for a basic emergency supply kit:
- Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust Mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
- Local maps
People should then also consider additional items to place in the kit including:
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Infant formula and diapers
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
- Cash or traveler’s checks and change
- Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted, nine parts water to one part bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water (Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners)
- Fire Extinguisher
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Businesses should urge employees to have a similar portable kit and should plan to:
- Keep copies of important records such as site maps, building plans, insurance policies, employee contact and identification information, bank account records, supplier and shipping contact lists, computer backup files, emergency or law enforcement contact information and other priority documents in a waterproof, fireproof portable container. Store a second set of records at an off-site location.
- Talk to your co-workers about what emergency supplies the company can feasibly provide, if any, and which ones individuals should consider keeping on hand.
Natural disasters and emergencies can be scary, but the more you prepare, the less frightening they seem. Don’t Be Scared, Be Prepared!
To find out more about emergency preparedness in Georgia, visit the Ready Georgia Web site at www.ready.ga.gov.