Should you decide not to recycle your old trash can, consider using your old wheeled trash container as your rolling emergency kit. After a major disaster, the usual services, such as running water, refrigeration, and telephones, may be unavailable. Experts recommend that you should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least three days. Store your household disaster kit in an easily accessible location. Put contents in a large, watertight container (e.g. a large plastic garbage can with a lid and wheels) that you can move easily.

YOUR BASIC EMERGENCY KIT SHOULD INCLUDE:
• Water – one gallon per person per day
• Food – ready to eat or requiring minimal water
• Manual can opener and other cooking supplies
• Plates, utensils and other feeding supplies
• First aid kit and instructions
• A copy of important documents and phone numbers
• Warm clothes and rain gear for each family member
• Heavy work gloves
• Disposable camera
• Unscented liquid household bleach and an eyedropper for water purification
• Personal hygiene items, including toilet paper, feminine supplies, hand sanitizer and soap
• Plastic sheeting, duct tape, and utility knife for covering broken windows
• Tools such as a crowbar, hammer and nails, staple gun, adjustable wrench, and bungee cords
• Blanket or sleeping bag
• Large heavy duty plastic bags and a plastic bucket for waste and sanitation
• Any special needs items for children, seniors or people with disabilities. Don’t forget water and supplies for your pets.

More information on becoming prepared can be found at
www.GoletaPrepareNow.org.