Published: October 19, 2009 10:26 pm         

Homeland Security offers ideas on items to keep just in case

In case of emergency or disaster, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security recommends having the following survival loot on hand so you don’t have to, well, loot.

• Water, at least a three-day supply.

• Food that requires no preparation, refrigeration, and little water, such as protein bars, canned meats, dry cereal, dry milk, peanut butter, crackers and baby formula, if applicable. Don’t forget the manual can opener.

• First aid kit with gauge, bandages, latex gloves, scissors, tweezers, petroleum jelly, eye wash and contact solution, burn ointment, sun screen, hydrogen peroxide, medication, thermometer, anti-diarrheal medication and hand sanitizer.

• Other items such as a battery-operated or hand crank flashlight and radio, cell phone, extra batteries, rain gear, sturdy shoes, tools, blankets, list of emergency phone numbers, important documents, whistle to signal for help and identification.

For more information on emergency preparedness, go to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security Web site at www.in.gov/dhs.