An emergency or disaster can occur at any moment. To ensure that your basic needs are met in this time of crisis, an emergency supply kit can make a major difference.
More information on preparing for a disaster or an emergency can be found on at the Red Cross and the CDC.
Here's what you need to include:
Water
- One gallon per person, per day. (If possible have a 3-day supply for an evacuation and a 2-week supply for home use.)
- One gallon of water per person per day for cooking and personal hygiene is important as well.
- Include water for your pets as well.
Food
- Select items that are non-perishable and easy to prepare. (If possible have a 3-day supply for an evacuation and a 2-week supply for home use.)
- 3 of the best foods to have in your kit: canned tuna or sardines, boxed milk alternatives (soy, almond, hemp) and freeze-dried fruits and vegetables
- Be sure to include foods needed for babies and the elderly.
- Manual can opener
- Utensils to prep and serve meals - get a detailed list of emergency food supply suggestions and ideas here and here
Tools & Supplies
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Extra batteries
- Multi-purpose tool (which can be used as a knife, file, pliers, and screwdriver)
- Cell phone with chargers
Personal Care Items
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items like soap, toothbrush & toothpaste, baby wipes
- Well-stocked first aid kit
- 7-day supply of medications
- Emergency blanket
Documents
- Make copies of important documents such as insurance cards, immunization records, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies
Also Good to Have in Your Kit
- Extra cash
- Maps of the area
- Extra set of car keys and house keys
- Whistle
- Waterproof matches
- Outdoor extension cords
- Rope
- Tarp
- Duct tape
- Gloves
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent
- Extra toilet paper
- Antibacterial soap and hand sanitizer
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