Avian Influenza Preparation

Family Preparation Kit

Download and print the Family Preparation Kit (pdf)

President Bush recently announced the nation's strategy for dealing with a pandemic influenza. This strategy is geared towards preparing the country for the possibility of a flu pandemic. As with any of the risks that we face as a nation - including natural disasters and the ongoing possibility of a terrorist attack - it is imperative that all segments of society be prepared for such a threat. Clean Harbors will, no doubt, be in the forefront of any national emergency as we always are, whether it is a natural disaster such as Katrina or a man made one such as the World Trade Center attack. It is important that each employee consider preparing for such an emergency to protect themselves and their family.

At the request of the administration, Clean Harbors and many other leading corporations have been maximizing our preparedness should the Avian Influenza ("Bird Flu") reach the United States and become a pandemic. We have taken critical steps to maintain operations during a national emergency by strengthening our business units and planning for any contingencies that may arise.

The Department of Homeland Security recommends that each home have an available stockpile of emergency material in the event of a national emergency. We have attached a chart listing critical supplies and sources to help you and your family prepare for a national emergency. We strongly urge you to consider making this investment now to ensure peace of mind in the future.

*Costs are approximate, actual cost can vary by supplier and locale.

Items 1-4 are supplies that are suitable for Bird Flu preparation. They are available from Aramsco.com or by calling 1.800.767.6933.

Items 5-7 can be purchased at a local Home Depot, Lowes or a supermarket. Bleach is an effective disinfectant for surface decontamination. Contractor grade bags can be used for trash and soiled or contaminated linens etc. (A sample food supply list is provided at the end of this page.)

We also strongly suggest that each family stock up on medication that must be taken daily as pharmacy service may become limited. You may want to consider prescription by mail through our health insurance provider Cigna. Cigna.com will allow you to purchase a 90-day supply of prescription medication, which will be mailed to your home. You will need to have your doctor change your prescription (to 90 days), but this would ensure a 90-day supply of medicine.
Additionally, our strike team has been in many areas following major disasters where basic services were disrupted. It is imperative that you and your family be able to self sustain for at least four weeks before relief may become available. It may take longer, so be prepared.

Consider purchasing the following items.

*Costs are approximate, actual cost can vary by supplier and locale.

If purchased and stored properly (dry/cool place), the supplies previously listed will keep for long periods of time. If an event does not strike, the supplies can be rotated in and out of storage and used for daily meals. If you select canned foods, please make sure you have at least one manual can opener in case electricity fails.

You may want to take an inventory of the supplies in your home. Many families find it cost-effective to "buy in bulk" and may already have a substantial level of supplies on hand. In that case, you may want to supplement your inventory to freshen up your meals and add variety. Spices such as salt, pepper and the old standby "Tabasco Sauce" will keep for a year or more and will not go to waste in most homes.

This information was accumulated through many public and private sources. We present it as a public service by Clean Harbors to help those interested prepare for a possible pandemic.

Warehouse or other bulk vendors such as Wal-Mart or Costco may provide the most cost-effective purchase options.