Weather emergencies require planning and preparation to keep you and your family safe. As the region braces for the effects of Hurricane Earl, Lourdes Health System's Employee Health Department compiled a list of supplies you should have in case of a weather emergency. The list also includes tips to keep your pets safe as well.

We advise you that you should take every precaution to make sure that you are prepared in the event a hurricane strikes NJ. In order to be properly prepared we have provided a list of recommended items that you should have readily available should an emergency occur. This list is prepared after discussion and communication with our Public Health partners. Remember that when an emergency occurs, it is not the time to start to plan. Plan ahead!

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

• A minimum of one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
• A battery-powered or hand crank radio and extra batteries for both.
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• A first aid kit.
• A whistle to signal for help.
• A dust mask to help filter contaminated air.
• 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)
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger.

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

• Prescription medications and glasses.
• Infant formula and diapers.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, 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.
• Matches in a waterproof container.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels.
• Paper and pencil.
• Personal hygiene supplies, such as soap, toothpaste, etc.

Don't forget your pets:

Get a kit of pet emergency supplies. Just as you do with your family's emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival:

• At least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
• Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets, in addition to water you need for yourself and your family.
• Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.
• Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet's emergency medical needs. Most kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book.
• Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag in your pet's emergency supply kit.
• Have a crate or other pet carrier available if you need to evacuate in an emergency situation and you can take your pets and animals with you, provided that it is practical to do so.
• Have a picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.
• Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.
• Consider two kits. In one, put everything your pets will need to stay where you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away.