A personal preparedness packet combines essential documents into a portable or readily identifiable location. It may include such documents as emergency contact information, lists of medications, medical conditions, or insurance coverage documentation.
Recommended items for a personal preparedness packet contain equivalents to:
In addition to list emergency contact information for household members in a personal preparedness packet, it is also a good idea to list “in case of emergency” contact information on your phone lock screen or in contacts. By storing the word “ICE” either in contacts or on a lock screen, emergency officials can quickly access any designated emergency contact.
Follow these recommendations for best use of ICE:
- Make sure the person whose name and number you are giving has agreed to be your ICE partner.
- Make sure your ICE partner has a list of people they should contact on your behalf – including your place of work.
- Make sure your ICE person’s number is one that is easy to contact, for example, a home number could be useless in an emergency if the person is outside the home full time.
- Make sure your ICE partner knows about any medical conditions that could affect your emergency treatment – for example allergies or current medication(s).
- Make sure if you are under 18, your ICE partner is a parent or legal guardian authorized to make a decision on your behalf – for example, if you need a life or death operation.
- Should your preferred contact be deaf, then prefix the number with ICETEXT.
- For more than one contact name, type ICE1, ICE2, ICE3, and so on.
In addition to storing a copy in your personal preparedness packet, marking the location of your packet with the Yellow Dot decal is recommended. The Yellow Dot decal can also be placed on the rear driver’s side window to alert emergency responders to look in the glove compartment for emergency medical information. It is a free program designed to help first responders provide life-saving medical attention during the first “golden hour” after a vehicle crash or other emergency.
Request a Yellow Dot from the NY Sheriffs Association:
Know your Top 10 Household Hazards. In order of risk level, based on both likelihood and severity, these are generally:
- Falls
- Poisoning
- Carbon monoxide
- Fire hazards
- Drowning
- Choking
- Sharp objects
- Stoves
- Dishwashers
- Suffocation
Most importantly, many of these hazards are highly preventable. Learn more at these resources:
10 Common Safety Hazards Around The House
Make sure you have first aid supplies ready, available, and kept up to date in a temperature-controlled location. You can use a first aid kit to treat injuries quickly, reduce the risk of complications, and stop blood loss. Some recommended components include:
- Disposable latex-free exam gloves
- Antiseptic wipes or solution
- Antibiotic ointment
- Sterile gauze pads in various sizes, including 4 x 4 and 8 x 10 inch pads
- Gauze roller bandages
- Adhesive bandages, including Band-Aids, in various sizes
- Elastic bandages, like Ace wrap
- Triangular bandages for slings or to control bleeding
- Rubber tourniquet
- Adhesive first aid tape
- Sterile water, saline, or irrigation solution to wash wounds or eyes
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Instant cold pack
- Sting relief ointment
- Aloe Vera gel for the treatment of minor burns
- Q-tips (to help administer any ointment)
- Medication (pain relief, antacids, anti-diarrhea, cold and cough, motion sickness, and antihistamines)
Red Cross - First Aid Kit Essentials