If you’re one of those who struggles mightily trying to come up with gift ideas for people on your Christmas list, believe it or not your friends at the Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division of the Michigan State Police have five great options for you to consider that could prove not only meaningful, but perhaps even life saving.
They want you to know that the holiday season is the perfect opportunity to help your friends and family prepare for any type of emergency or disaster, and as such are suggesting five emergency preparedness gifts worth adding to your shopping list.
Capt. Chris Kelenske is Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security as well as Commander of that division of the Michigan State Police. Kelnske says, “Giving preparedness items as gifts is always a great idea,” adding, “It provides peace of mind knowing those you care about will be better prepared in an emergency or disaster.”
Holiday Preparedness Gift No. 1: Emergency Preparedness Kits
When disaster strikes, power could be out and gas and water may not be available, making a fully-stocked emergency preparedness kit a necessity. At a minimum, every household should have a kit that contains food, water, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, clothing and a blanket. A recommended checklist of emergency kit items can be found at www.michigan.gov/miready.
An emergency preparedness kit for your vehicle is also a good idea, in case an emergency occurs while traveling. An auto emergency kit should include nonperishable, high-energy foods such as granola bars, canned nuts and trail mix, as well as a blanket. It could save your life and the lives of your passengers.
A preparedness kit can be made or purchased online for as little as $40.
Holiday Preparedness Gift No. 2: LED Emergency Hand Crank Lantern
During a power outage, an emergency hand crank lantern can provide a light source with just 60 seconds of cranking. Most emergency hand crank lanterns also have the option to run power from a battery source or utilize solar power.
Prices range from $10 to $40 at hardware stores and online retailers.
Holiday Preparedness Gift Idea No. 3: Mobile Phone Battery Charger
Mobile phones are great to have in an emergency, but when the power goes out, a mobile phone cannot be charged. A mobile phone battery charger solves this problem. Some models can charge multiple devices at once and are combined with an emergency flashlight.
Prices range from $15 to $80.
Holiday Preparedness Gift Idea No. 4: Water Filtration Bottle
A water filtration bottle that removes particles and bacteria can be used in an emergency or during routine outdoor recreational activities to provide clean drinking water.
Prices range from $20 to $60 and can be purchased online or at outdoor recreation stores.
Holiday Preparedness Gift Idea No. 5: Disaster Preparedness Books for Kids
Disasters are scary. Knowing what to do can help reduce your children’s fears during an emergency. A disaster preparedness book can teach children about emergency plans in place at home, school or while traveling. These types of books also allow children to participate in their own personal preparedness.
A free, printable disaster preparedness activity book can be downloaded at www.michigan.gov/miready or check with your local emergency management agency to see if they offer any preparedness books for kids.
For more information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency, visit www.michigan.gov/miready or follow MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS.
The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is responsible for coordinating state and federal resources to assist local government in response and relief activities in the event of an emergency or disaster, as well as coordinating homeland security initiatives and various programs.
Here’s a direct link to many of their suggestions:
http://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-72297_60152_68558—,00.html
