Grab A Free Emergency Kit Wednesday At The Auburn Vaccine Site

AUBURN, WA — King County residents will have a chance Wednesday morning to grab some free emergency preparedness kits outside the Auburn mass vaccination site at the Outlet Collection mall.

The kits include a backpack from the Community Emergency Response Team, packed with several essentials that can prove vital in the event of a large-scale emergency or natural disaster, including first aid items and light sources. Each kit also comes with disaster preparedness guides, which can also be found online.

Free Emergency Preparedness Kits

• Date: Wednesday, June 9
• Time: Starting at 10 a.m.
• Location: Auburn Mass Vaccination Site (1101 Outlet Collection Way, Ste. 1333)

Officials said the Auburn location was chosen for the giveaway since King County Emergency Management already provides support at the vaccine clinic. However, Wednesday's giveaway is open to all — not just people receiving a vaccine. Since supplies are limited, those who can't make it Wednesday morning can find checklists for assembling their own kits on the King County website.

Some of the basics include:

• 1 gallon per person per day (for drinking, washing, cooking)
• Non-perishable, ready to eat food
• Select items you like to eat
• Monitor expiration dates and replace as needed
• Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, scissors, tweezers, and pain-relief medication
• Prescriptions and personal medical equipment
• Light sources that are hand-cranked or battery powered
• Portable radio and extra batteries (a great way to stay informed)
• Alternate means to charge your phone or computer
• At least one extra pair of warm clothing
• Rainproof outer clothing and boots to keep you dry
• Comfortable, sturdy shoes in case you need to walk long distances

Learn more about how to prepare yourself or your family for an emergency on the King County Emergency Management website.