This past weekend our Equal Justice Corps Members Jennifer and Beth ventured out to Loup City to take part in the annual Polish Days. While there, they met many people who told about their experiences during disastrous weather.

A woman explained to Beth and Jennifer about the 1975 tornado that destroyed part of Omaha – it is ranked in one of the top 10 worst tornadoes in U.S. history. She also informed the two EJC members about the snowstorms of the same year. During this particular snowstorm thousands of people were stranded due to the terrible conditions; temperatures dropped below 10-20 degrees.

Though these storms happened over 40 years ago, it is still important to be prepared. We still have chances of having disastrous weather today. Here is what we suggest to include in an emergency kit:

• Water
• Food
• Can opener
• Infant formula/diapers
• Pet food/ water
• Prescription medicine/ glasses
• Sleeping bags/ blankets
• Phone chargers
• Hygiene products/ feminine supplies
• Important documents copies, i.e. insurance, medical, bank information, etc.
• Notepad with phone numbers
• Flashlight and batteries
• First aid kit – band aids, gauze, medical tape, painkillers
• Whistle
• Matches
• Pliers
• Rope
• Pocket knife
• Extra shoes/clothing
• Sunscreen & bug spray
• Children’s toy (distractions)

 

For more information visit: http://disaster.legalaidofnebraska.com