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Make sure you’re ready for disaster

As Hurricane Florence unleashes her fury on the East Coast, it is a good time to ask yourself, “If a natural disaster struck Northeast Michigan, would I be prepared?”

None of us likes to consider a disaster occurring here. Yet, none of us are immune from that possibility. With September being National Preparedness Month, it is a good time to review how to be prepared.

Federal government officials recommend having enough supplies, food and water on hand to survive for 72 hours. They suggest you prepare a kit made up of these supplies:

∫ Water — one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

∫ Food — at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

∫ Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

∫ Flashlight

∫ First aid kit

∫ Extra batteries

∫ Whistle to signal for help

∫ Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and 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

∫ Manual can opener for food

∫ Local maps

∫ Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

In addition, readers might need things like prescription medications, glasses and contact solutions, infant formula, diapers or pet food.

None of us want to find ourselves in a situation like that which is happening to the Carolinas today.

That being said, it is wise for all of us to be prepared for anything.

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