Creating Your Emergency Preparedness Kit

girl-with-umbrellaPeace of mind comes from being prepared and knowing how you will handle an emergency.  This article focuses on making your home and family more ready to face any emergency.

There are a variety of steps to take to assure that you are prepared in the case of an emergency.

Get Paperwork In Order
Begin by making sure that your important documents are in a place where you can put your hands on them easily.  These would include your insurance policy, medical documents, and property deeds.  Experts advise that you keep one copy in a portable container at home, and store a second copy elsewhere.

Pack Emergency Provisions
These supplies should be assembled before an emergency strikes.  They should include:

  • Water: one gallon a day for each person for three days.
  • Food:  non-perishable, high protein foods packed in plastic containers.  Once again, enough for three days.  Don't forget the can opener, and don't forget the pets.
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Portable radio and more batteries.
  • First aid supplies.
  • Hygiene supplies such as wipes, hand sanitizer, trash bags, paper towels, travel shampoo, soap and toothpaste, toothbrushes.
  • Whistle... just in case you need to signal for help.
  • Cash

Having all of these supplies prepared means that you don't have any last minute panic.  Being prepared contributes to a calm approach to emergencies.

For more information click here:  Sarasota County Hurricane Preparedness

 
The Bromeliad
bromeliadEach month we introduce you to a "Florida Friendly" plant or flower.

Variety is the key word when it comes to bromeliads.  The most familiar bromeliad  is the pineapple.  The best part about bromeliads is that they are easy to grow.  And they are beautiful!

They sprout "pups" and one plant can turn into many healthy plants with a minimum of effort.  The pup needs to be a third of the size of the parent before being removed.  It should then be cut away at the stem.

They are watered from above, and their "cups" hold water. Use a hose to flush the water, so that it is not allowed to stagnate.  Stagnation can breed mosquitoes.

No Florida garden should be without the bromeliad.  They are best grown in the shade.  Their prolific reproduction, brilliant varieties and colors and hardiness make the gardener look like a hero!

For more information on this and other "Florida Friendly" plants, visit www.FloridaYards.org.
 
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