September is National Emergency Preparedness Month

SOUTH KINGSTOWN — Chief Steven Pinch and the Union Fire District of South Kingstown would like to offer residents tips for responsibly stocking their emergency preparedness stockpile during Emergency Preparedness Month.

September is National Emergency Preparedness Month. The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency encourages and reminds all Rhode Islanders to be prepared for disasters or emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities.

Homeowners, families, communities and businesses can use this opportunity to find ways or help others to understand more about preparing for disasters and reducing risks to health and the environment.

One of the ways residents can best prepare for an emergency is to stockpile important goods and supplies in the event a disaster strikes.

When creating a stockpile, residents are urged to buy items over a course of time, not in bulk ahead of an emergency. Abruptly stockpiling will limit the availability of necessary items in stores for others who may be in need.

“Knowing their homes are properly stocked in the event of an emergency not only gives people peace of mind, but can also save valuable time that is crucial to emergency response,” Chief Pinch said. “We encourage residents to be smart about creating their stockpile, and always consider others by not buying more than they will reasonably need.”

The American Public Health Association (APHA) recommends the following for emergency preparedness stockpiles:

• A three-day supply of food and water stored in your home. Residents are encouraged to stock a week’s supply of food and water if there is enough space in the household. Residents should also choose food that doesn’t require refrigeration.
• One gallon of water per person/per day for at least three days.
• Residents should refrain from buying in bulk and opt to pick up one or two items for their stockpile every time they go to the store.
• Consider purchasing items from bulk “club” stores to help save money on supplies, or purchase items such as canned vegetables and batteries when they are on sale.
• Stockpiles should be stored in a cool, dark place that is easily accessible during an emergency.
• Supplies in your stockpile should be contained in a box or plastic bin that is tightly closed to protect its contents from humidity or pests.
• Residents should also include a first aid and emergency medical kit, personal items and important documents in their stockpile.

Residents should be mindful of not “borrowing” from their stockpile as it is for emergency use.

Additionally, the APHA recommends that residents check their emergency preparedness stockpile twice a year when residents change their clocks for daylight saving time. Residents should replace anything that is missing or expired at this time.

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