Texas A&M Forest Service encourages emergency ‘go-kit’ for disasters

Tax holiday for emergency preparation supplies this weekend

April 21, 2022 - by Leighton Gibson

a table full of emergency supplies, including masks, flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit, bottles of water, tarp, camera, knife, eating utensils, crackers — Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday is happening this weekend. (Stock photo)

We can’t control when disasters strike, but we can make sure we are prepared. This weekend, Texans can pick up essential items for their evacuation go-kits tax-free during the Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday.

“When disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, winter storms and tornadoes arise requiring you to leave your home, being prepared ahead of time can save precious time and help keep your family safe during an emergency,” said Karen Stafford, Texas A&M Forest Service wildfire prevention coordinator.

Since Jan. 1, Texas A&M Forest Service has responded to 775 wildfires that burned 351,046 acres statewide. In the coming months, wildfire danger is predicted to continue due to the drought most of Texas is experiencing.

“With continued wildfire risk, being prepared is more important for your family now than ever,” said Stafford. “The best way to prepare for wildfires is by creating multiple evacuation routes and a go-kit for your family.”

Disaster kit supplies

Texas A&M Forest Service encourages all residents to assemble a go-kit that can be easily carried and includes supplies for several days. Your kit should include:

Supplies for both people and pets.
Prescription medications or other necessary medical equipment.
Papers and important documents such as insurance and identification documents.
Personal needs including food, water, clothing, money and a first-aid kit.
Priceless items such as photos, family heirlooms and any other irreplaceable or valuable items.

This weekend is the perfect time to prepare your go-kit while certain emergency preparation supplies, including first-aid kits, radios, batteries and telephone chargers, will be tax free during the 2022 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday.

Visit the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts website for more information on the sales tax holiday and a list of eligible items: http://bit.ly/txemergencyprep. Visit www.ready.gov/kit to learn how to build an emergency preparedness kit.