“Advice is like snow–the softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon, and the deeper it sinks, into the mind. – Samuel Taylor Coleridge
It’s time to prepare for the winter. All around us we see squirrels gathering nuts for the winter, birds preparing to fly south and shorter daylight hours. Now, it’s our turn to get ready for winter, and the possible winter snow storms that can knock out power. Let’s start with a home emergency kit, a must have for the home of every citizen, especially seniors.
Emergency Kit Essentials
Your home emergency kit should have food, bottled water and supplies to live on for at least 3 days or longer. Keep your emergency kit all together in your home, and in an easy-to-carry container in case you need to leave quickly.
Below is a checklist of items that should be included in the emergency kit:
- Bottled water (for at least 3 days)
- At least a 3-day supply of foods that won’t spoil
- Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First Aid Kit with: bandages, gauze pads, antibacterial wipes, latex gloves, scissors, safety pins and aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
- Sturdy shoes or boots
- Heavy socks
- Hats and gloves
- Extra clothing and blankets
- Cash (ATM’s may not work
- Non-electric can opener
- Extra house keys
- Paper towels
- Tooth brush and paste
- Feminine supplies
- Soap
- Towels & washcloths
- One-week supply of medications
- Extra glasses
Now you’re ready to roll! With all the necessary supplies on hand, look out the window, and enjoy the beauty of falling snow.
Lois Young-Tulin
Lois Young-Tulin, PhD, is an Assistant Geriatric Care Manager at Elder Connections