Make sure that if the worst happens, you are prepared in your home with an emergency kit stocked with the basics. This kit can be as simple or inclusive as your own personal needs. If you are just getting started with your kit, it can be overwhelming to decide what you should include. The following offers a basic list of items, and is followed with a more inclusive list which may accommodate for additional needs. The following recommendations outline what you may need to survive on your own for up to 72 hours.
(SOURCE: Ready.gov)
Basic Disaster Kit Supplies
- Water. One gallon per person, per day, for three days.
- Food. Three day supply of non-perishables.
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio or NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities (natural gas)
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with non-electrical chargers
Other Possible Necessities
- Prescription medications
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Glasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
If you would like to delve deeper into planning and preparing your disaster kit, visit www.ready.gov for even more great tips!