A personal preparedness packet combines essential documents into a portable or easily identifiable location. It may include emergency contact information, lists of medications, medical conditions, and insurance documentation.
Recommended resources for your personal preparedness packet include:
In addition to including emergency contact information in your preparedness packet, it is also recommended to store “In Case of Emergency (ICE)” contacts on your phone lock screen or in your contacts list. This allows emergency responders to quickly access your designated contacts.
Follow these recommendations for effective use of ICE:
- Ensure the person you list has agreed to be your ICE contact.
- Provide your ICE contact with a list of people to notify on your behalf, including your workplace.
- Use a phone number that is easily reachable at most times.
- Inform your ICE contact of any medical conditions, allergies, or medications.
- If you are under 18, your ICE contact should be a parent or legal guardian authorized to make decisions.
- If your contact is deaf or hard of hearing, prefix the number with “ICETEXT.”
- For multiple contacts, label them as ICE1, ICE2, ICE3, and so on.
In addition to storing a copy of your preparedness packet in your vehicle, mark its location using a Yellow Dot decal. The decal is typically placed on the rear driver’s side window to alert emergency responders to check the glove compartment for medical information.
This free program helps first responders provide life-saving medical attention during the critical “golden hour” following an emergency.
Request a Yellow Dot from the New York State Sheriffs' Association
Know your top 10 household hazards. Based on both likelihood and severity, these commonly include:
- Falls
- Poisoning
- Carbon monoxide exposure
- Fire hazards
- Drowning
- Choking
- Sharp objects
- Stoves
- Dishwashers
- Suffocation
Many of these hazards are preventable. Learn more from these resources:
View 10 Common Safety Hazards Around the House
Keep first aid supplies readily available and stored in a temperature-controlled location. A well-stocked kit allows you to treat injuries quickly, reduce complications, and control bleeding.
Recommended first aid kit components include:
- Disposable latex-free exam gloves
- Antiseptic wipes or solution
- Antibiotic ointment
- Sterile gauze pads in multiple sizes
- Gauze roller bandages
- Adhesive bandages in various sizes
- Elastic bandages
- Triangular bandages
- Tourniquet
- Adhesive first aid tape
- Sterile water or saline solution
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Instant cold pack
- Sting relief ointment
- Aloe vera gel for minor burns
- Cotton swabs
- Over-the-counter medications (pain relief, antacids, antihistamines, etc.)
View Red Cross First Aid Kit Essentials