According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) nearly 50% of U.S. adults do not have the resources or plans in place in the event of an emergency.  44% of Americans don’t have a first aid kit, and 48% don’t have standard emergency supplies like flashlights and basic tools.

At the minimum, the American Red Cross recommends the following basic supplies for emergency preparedness:

1. Flashlight
2. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
3. Extra batteries
4. First aid kit
5. Multi-purpose tool
6. Cell phone with chargers
7. Emergency blanket
8. Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
9. Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
10. Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
11. Sanitation and personal hygiene items
12. Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
13. Family and emergency contact information
14. Extra cash
15. Emergency blanket
16. Map(s) of the area

As we witness more natural disasters around the country, a first-aid kit, easy-to-carry emergency kit, or even a reliable flashlight are practical gifts that companies can give to any audience, at any time.  It’s a gift that demonstrates your corporate commitment to client and employee safety.  In the coming holiday season, consider the gift of safety!