APHA: Check Emergency Kits When Turning Clocks Ahead

"Since we already use daylight saving as an opportunity to ensure that our families are prepared for an emergency, it's a great time for us also to make sure that we have a fully stocked emergency kit and that none of the perishable items have expired," said Georges C. Benjamin, APHA’s executive director. "When we spring forward this year, we want every American to make sure their family has a preparedness kit to fall back on in the event of an emergency."

The "Get Ready: Set Your Clocks, Check Your Stocks" campaign urges people to gather or refresh their emergency supplies before a disaster or disease outbreak occurs. APHA recommends that emergency kits include at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and bottled water for each person, as well as any essential medication.

APHA points out that this also is an ideal time for people to re-familiarize themselves with their community’s emergency preparedness plan, including evacuation routes, emergency shelters and food bank locations. Citizens also should check their smoke detector batteries.

As part of its campaign, APHA released materials and tips on its Web site, including a downloadable tool kit that informs families about the importance of preparing for a public health emergency, what to include in a preparation kit and how to involve children. Other facts and tips include checklists, grocery lists, stockpile recipes and more.

To download materials and learn more about the campaign, visit http://www.getreadyforflu.org/clocksstocks/index.htm.