Public Health Preparedness

Personal Preparedness

 

National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and held annually in September, is a good reminder that natural and man-made disasters can strike at any time. It's important to have a planned response when you're at home, at work, or on the road. View the AAFP Preparedness Guide to create a preparedness checklist, evacuation plan, and emergency contact list.

#PrepYourHealth #BeReady #PreparedNotScared


Personal health preparedness is about having the means to care for and protect your health and wellness immediately following an emergency or disaster. That means having the supplies, skill, and self-confidence to bounce back from a difficult or life-changing event, such as a flood or hurricane.

What can you do to prepare?

Personal needs include supplies and equipment necessary to protect the health and safety of your family in an emergency. Create a disaster supply kit:

  • Store at least a 3-day supply of water for each person and pet (1 gallon per day is recommended) and consider storing more for hot weather. Learn more about creating and storing an emergency water supply.
  • Store at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and a can opener. Learn more about preparing an emergency food supply and food safety/sanitation.
  • Store a 7 to 10-day supply of prescription medications in a waterproof, childproof container.
  • Important paperwork and documents, including:
    • Health insurance card
    • Immunization and vaccination records
    • Vital records (e.g., birth and death certificates and adoption records)
    • Personal identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport, social security card or green card)
  • Health protection supplies, including insect repellent, water purification tablets, and sunscreen.
  • Flashlight and extra batteries. Learn more about preparing alternative power sources.
  • Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air.
  • A change of clothes for each family member.
  • Cash on hand, since ATMs and credit card readers won’t always be available. Cash can help pay for immediate expenses like lodging, food and gas. Learn more about financial preparedness and creating an emergency financial first aid kit.
  • First aid supplies, including:
    • First aid kit
    • Antibacterial wipes
    • Non-latex gloves
    • Digital thermometer
    • Waterproof bandages and gauze
  • Personal sanitation and hygiene items, including:
    • Soap
    • Hand sanitizer
    • Sanitizing wipes
    • Garbage bags and plastic ties
    • Toilet paper
    • Feminine hygiene supplies
  • Pet supplies. Learn more about pet safety in emergencies.
  • Child care supplies. Learn more about creating an emergency kit for children and families.
  • Baby supplies. Learn more about disaster safety for new and expecting parents.

Are you ready to make a plan and assess your readiness?

Prepare

Community Contacts

Police Department (non emergency)

(860) 528-4401

Fire Department (non emergency)

(860) 291-7400

East Hartford Health Department

(860) 291-7324

Hartford Hospital

(860) 545-5000

Red Cross

(877) 287-3327

Poison Control

(800) 222-1222

 

FEMA mobile app

You can also download the FEMA mobile app for disaster resources, weather alerts, and safety tips or sign up for preparedness text messages by texting PREPARE to 43362 to receive preparedness tips (msg/data rates apply).