Household Winter Disaster Survival Kit

Winter in Stark County presents special needs when planning for the unexpected. You may be without power and heat for several days depending on how severe the event may be, which means you'll need to have an alternate way of keeping warm to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.

Blizzards, ice storms, flooding, and other winter weather events can put your family at risk for serious injury, illness, and even death. Every household in Northeast Ohio should have on hand a Winter Disaster Supplies Kit assembled and readily available in the event of a major winter storm. Your primary concerns during winter weather are heat, food, and fresh water. During and after a severe winter storm, you may be without power or a heat source for several hours or even days.

Every family in Stark County should have a disaster supplies kit assembled and readily accessable. Kits can be purchased ready-made or assembled from items bought at discount stores.

Assemble your winter survival kit, then store it in an easy-to-carry container such as a backpack or large plastic bin available at most discount stores like Wal Mart and Target. Store your winter survival kit in an easily accessable area in your home and know where it is at all times. Every family member should know where your survival kit is and be able to get to it when a winter storm or other disaster strikes.

• Water: At least one gallon per person, per day for a minimum of 3 days
• Food: At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food for each person in your household
• Fresh, Dry Clothing and Shoes: At least one change per person
• Blanket or Sleeping Bag: At least one for each person
• First-aid kit
• Emergency Tool Kit: Containing common household hand tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, duct tape, vise-grips, etc.
• NOAA Weather Radio: With extra batteries
• Portable Radio: With extra batteries
• Flashlight: With extra batteries
• Prescription Medicines
• Cash: Remember, during power outages ATM's will not operate
• Special Items for Infants Extra disposable diapers, formula, etc.
• Special Items for Elderly Family Members
• Special Items for Disabled Family Members
• Important Documents: Keep any important documents you may need in waterproof containers or bags

DURING THE STORM

• Stay Inside
• Stay Informed
• If Using Alternate Heating Sources: use fire safeguards and proper ventilation
• Close Off Unneeded and Unused Rooms
• Use Rags or Towels Under doors and in cracks to help hold in heat
• Cover Windows at Night
• Eat and Drink: Food provides the body with heat and energy. Water will prevent dehydration
• Wear Layered Clothing: Layers of loose-fitting, light-weight clothing will provide insulation and help keep body heat in. Remove clothing to prevent overheating and perspiration