Give the Gift of Preparedness

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is reminding Tennesseans of the critical tools and resources available to better prepare your family, friends, and loved ones for any disaster or emergency that may occur in the new year.   You can add many of those tools to your shopping list this holiday season, for a last-minute gift that will give the person who has “everything” peace of mind, when needed the most. 

It is important to have an emergency go-kit with the essentials an individual or family (don’t forget the pets) may need during or following a severe weather incident if they need to shelter in place or evacuate.  From gift exchanges to stocking stuffers, there are many items that will enhance someone’s emergency go-kit:

  • NOAA Weather Radio
  • Midland Attachment Bundle (Pillow shaker and strobe light for an enhanced alerting system.)
  • Flashlight(s)
  • Batteries
  • First Aid Kit
  • Portable or solar powered chargers for electronic devices
  • Portable power bank for a cell phone
  • Waterproof bag or box 

NOAA Weather Radios provide a direct, reliable source of up-to-date weather warnings and information, even during power outages or when cell phone service is unreliable, allowing your family, friends, and loved ones to take necessary safety precautions immediately. 

There are 21 NOAA Weather Radio Stations in Tennessee.  If you give or receive a weather radio, make sure it is programmed to where you live. More information can be found here.

Don’t forget about an emergency go-kit for a vehicle, as being prepared can help you “expect the unexpected” on the road this winter.   With essential supplies you’d keep at home, here are a few suggested automobile extras that could be a perfect gift:

  • Jumper cables
  • Ice scraper
  • Car cell phone charger or phone bank
  • Blanket

TEMA encourages all individuals and communities to take proactive steps in readiness planning.  More information on how to prepare can be found on our website, with resources such as a family communication plan template and basic emergency supplies checklist. 

FB Cover Final - 7