September is Emergency Preparedness Month

Health District encourages community to ‘make a kit, make a plan’

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 3, 2014

LAS VEGAS – If an emergency or natural disaster occurred today, are you and your family prepared to be on your own for a few days or weeks? The Southern Nevada Health District encourages everyone to create a preparedness plan for their families or businesses, especially during Emergency Preparedness Month. For information about emergency preparedness or for tips to develop a family kit, visit the health district’s emergency preparedness web page: http://www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/php/index.php.

A family emergency preparedness kit can be assembled over several months simply by adding one or two items to a grocery list. Supplies can be contained in a new, large container, a backpack or a suitcase. A kit should include food, water, a first aid kit, tools, copies of important documents, clothing and bedding, medications, and pet supplies. A household preparedness kit should include enough supplies to sustain everyone in the household for as many as three weeks.

The health district’s recommendations for a family emergency preparedness kit include:

• • Prescription and over-the-counter medications
  • Toiletries, including soap
  • First-aid kit
  • Baby formula and diapers
  • Extra eyeglasses
  • Pet food/medications/leases/collars/ID tags
  • Extra batteries for flashlight(s) and radio(s)
  • Garbage bags
  • Cash
  • Non-perishable food, ready-to-eat canned meats, soups, fruits, vegetables, peanut butter, protein bars, utensils, can openers, sterno heating
  • One gallon of water per person per day and fluids with electrolytes

Don’t forget to prepare for pets. Many shelters might not be able to accommodate pets. Before an emergency occurs, check hotels, motels or shelters to see which will be able to accept pets. Prepare a kit for pets as well and remember to include any medical information or supplies, leashes, food, toys. Check with your vet about the pet carrier that is appropriate for your animal and microchip pets so you can find them if you are separated.

The health district and its partners will participate in several health and information fairs where guests can receive information about how to build their emergency preparedness kits:

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.