In case of an emergency, here's how to plan

Consumer Reports News: May 06, 2009 01:57 PM

The U.S. government's pandemic flu information website, pandemicflu.gov, provides a planning checklist for individuals and families. Among their recommendations:

Keep a two-week supply of non-perishable food and water on hand, in case you can't get to the store or if supplies are short.
Check your prescription drug supply, to make sure you always have a steady supply of the medications and medical supplies you need.
Keep a full stock of over-the-counter drugs and other supplies that could be helpful in a flu pandemic, including pain relievers and fever reducers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, generic), and NSAIDS, including ibuprofen (Advil, generic), and naproxen (Aleve, generic); stomach and diarrhea remedies; and cough and cold medications. Remember, children need different medications for these conditions than adults.
Consider keeping a stock of fluids with electrolytes, to help fend off dehydration, as well as vitamins.
Other supplies for emergencies you might consider stocking up on include flashlights, batteries, portable radio, garbage bags, tissues, toilet paper, diapers, a thermometer, and a manual can opener. Also consider stocking hand sanitizers with at least a 60 percent alcohol content, and surgical masks with a rating of at least N-95*.
Talk with family members about what they would need to be cared for in an emergency. You might think about preparing emergency contact forms, and health information sheets.
Get involved in your community, local groups, and daycare centers to help plan for a flu pandemic.

—Kevin McCarthy, associate editor

For more on preparing for emergencies, see our Storm and Emergency Guide.

* Update for November 2, 2009: A 2009 study finding that N-95 respirators were superior to surgical masks at preventing the spread of flu was retracted by the authors after a flaw in the methods was discovered. The authors now say there is no significance difference between N-95 respirators and surgical masks, confirming another recent study that found they were equal.

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