Emergency Officials Say Now Is the Time To Prepare Needed Supplies And Evacuation Plan.

Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory, Mayors of Lafayette Parish municipalities and emergency officials said now is the time to prepare needed supplies and an evacuation plan.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, residents should take extra precautions. In case of evacuation to a public shelter, pack items to help protect you and others – soap, hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol, disinfectant wipes and two masks for each person. Children under the age of two should not wear a mask.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

·         In case of power loss at ATMs, withdraw cash before the storm.

·         Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)

·         Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food), ready-to-eat canned meats, canned fruits and canned vegetables, bread, high-energy foods – peanut butter, nuts, trail mix and dried fruits, for example

·         Non-electric can opener

·         Toilet paper, paper towels, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils

·         Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

·         Flashlight

·         Extra batteries

·         Battery-powered lantern

·         Extra fuel for generator and car

·         Whistle (to signal for help)

·         Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)

·         Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)

·         Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

·         Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

·         Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

·         Paper, pens, pencils

·         Soap, feminine supplies and other personal hygiene items including denture needs

·         Clothing and bedding: a change of clothes, footwear and a sleeping bag or bedroll and pillow for each household member

·         Protective clothing, rainwear

·         Matches in a waterproof container

·         Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Important Papers and Identification (store in waterproof container)

·         Driver's license or personal identification

·         Social Security card

·         Proof of residence (deed or lease)

·         Insurance policies

·         Birth and marriage certificates

·         Stocks, bonds and other negotiable certificates

·         Wills, deeds, and copies of recent tax returns

Prescriptions and Non-prescription Medications

·         Prescription medications for all family members (at least a 7 to 10-day supply)

·         A list of all prescription medications, including dosage amounts and times

·         Prescription eyeglasses, contacts and contact lens solution

·         Non-prescription medications – Acetaminophen and ibuprofen pain relievers, antacid, antidiarrheal medication, laxatives

First Aid Kit

·         Band-Aids (assorted sizes)

·         Antibiotic ointment

·         Hydrocortisone

·         Antihistamine for allergic reactions

·         Epi-Pen for those with allergies

·         Antiseptic wipes

·         Disposable cold packs

·         Gauze pads (assorted sizes)

·         Roller gauze

·         Surgical tape to secure gauze

·         Elastic bandage (like an Ace bandage)

·         Oral thermometer

·         Cotton balls and cotton swabs

·         Sunscreen

·         Insect repellant

Infants

·         Formula

·         Diapers, wipes, diaper cream

·         Bottles

·         Powdered milk

·         Extra bottled water

·         Medications

·         Pedialyte

·         Thermometer

·         Portable Crib

·         A wrap, carrier or stroller

·         Extra clothes

Special Needs

·         Glasses,

·         Hearing aids

·         Catheters

·         Augmentative and alternative communication devices

·         Cane

·         Wheelchair

·         Scooter

·         Walker

·         Dressing aids

·         Oxygen

·         Tubing

·         Feeding supplies

·         Emergency health information and emergency contacts

·         Also keep a list of the type and serial numbers of medical devices you need. 

Pets

·         Do not leave your pets behind. If it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for your pets.

·         Identification tag with name, phone number and medical needs. Have a picture of your pet in case you’re separated.

·         A week’s supply of food, water, medications, cat litter

·         Food and water bowls

·         Pet carrier, leash or harness

·         Bags for pet waste

·         Veterinarian contact information

·         Ahead of time, find pet-friendly hotels in case of evacuation.

·         Locate nearby boarding facilities if you’re evacuating to a shelter where pets aren’t allowed. Bring medical records. Facilities may require proof of up-to-date vaccinations.

·         Ask out-of-town family or friends if they’d be willing to care for your pets.

·         Treats and toys