General Preparedness

The Town of Holden encourages its residents to be prepared for all emergency situations:


MAKE A KIT
Basic things to include in your kit:
·    A battery-powered AM/FM radio, flashlights and extra batteries
·    First Aid Kit
·    Prescription and nonprescription medicines
·    Eye glasses
·    A list of medical conditions, prescriptions and allergies for all household members
·    Supplies and equipment for infants and/or household members with special needs
·    Important phone numbers
·    Copies of important documents (birth certificates, naturalization documents, licenses, passports, health insurance cards, insurance policies, bank account numbers, credit card numbers) in a waterproof container
·    Photos of household members and pets in case someone gets lost
·    Extra set of car keys
·    Map of area
·    Cash (ATMs may not work)
·    Matches in a waterproof container
·    Water in plastic containers (1 gallon/person/day)
·    Non-perishable food (ready-to-eat canned/dried meals, fruits, and vegetables, crackers) for two weeks if possible
·    Basic personal hygiene items (soap, tooth brush, toothpaste)
·    Pet supplies (including food and water, leashes, carriers, and records of shots)
·    Small tools including manual can opener and wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

MAKE A PLAN
During an emergency, it is important to know how to reach family members.
·    Pick two places to meet. Select a spot outside your home that is easy to get to in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire. Select another spot outside  of your neighborhood in case you cannot return home. All household members must know the meeting places.
·    Make a list of contact numbers for everyone in your family. Make sure every family member has a copy.
·    Designate an out-of-town friend or relative as your family contact. During/after an emergency, it may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than a  local call.
·    Be familiar with evacuation routes.
·    Make a plan for your pets. Pets are not allowed at most evacuation shelters.
·    Make a list of the prescription medications, allergies, and other important medical information for each family member. Place a copy in your emergency kit  and another in your car.

STAY INFORMED
During an emergency situation, listen to the radio and/or TV and follow the advice of local or state officials.

For more information, please visit:
Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
Federal Emergency Management Agency
National Weather Service
Ready.Gov
Massachusetts Department of Public Health