CDC: How to prepare for Hurricane Earl

ATLANTA, Sept. 2 (UPI) -- Whether in the path of Hurricane Earl or not, everyone should have necessary supplies on hand in case of a disaster or power outage, U.S. health officials say.

Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say people should have several clean containers sufficient to hold 5 gallons for each person in a household for three to five days, as well as a three- to five-day supply of non-perishable food.

In addition, people should always have on hand a first-aid kit and first-aid manual; battery-powered radio, flashlights and extra batteries; sleeping bags or extra blankets; water-purifying supplies, such as chlorine or iodine tablets or unscented, ordinary household chlorine bleach and prescription medicines.

Families with babies need to stock up on baby food and/or prepared formula, diapers, and other baby supplies -- as well as disposable cleaning cloths, such as "baby wipes," for the whole family that can be used in case bathing facilities are not available.

CDC officials recommend having personal hygiene supplies such as soap and toothpaste.

It is important always to have vehicles equipped with flares, booster cables, maps, tools, a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, sleeping bags, shovel and gloves, the advisory said.