Preparing a Disaster Supply Kit

Having a disaster supply kit ready to take with you at a moment's notice ensures that you will have necessary supplies no matter how fast you may need to evacuate. Pack supplies in duffel bags or backpacks and keep them in a designated place. Your kit will also come in handy if you must take shelter in your home. This list will help ensure that your disaster supply kit includes all the essentials.

Water

  • Pack at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days
  • Store water in tightly sealed, non-breakable plastic, fiberglass or enamel-lined metal containers
  • Change your water every six months

Food

  • Pack enough food to last each family member at least three days
  • Include canned and boxed foods because they require little preparation and stay good for long periods of time
  • Remember to bring a manual can opener or to buy food in self-opening cans
  • Pack foods in sealed metal or plastic containers
  • Replace foods every six months
  • Include foods for infants and family members with special diets

Tools and Equipment

  • Battery-powered radio
  • Flashlights
  • Spare batteries
  • Re-sealable plastic bags
  • Washcloths and towels
  • Paper cups and plates and plastic utensils
  • Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant and other toiletries
  • Heavy-duty plastic garbage bags
  • Change of clothing and an extra pair of shoes and socks for each person
  • Blankets or a sleeping bag for each person

Personal Items

  • Personal identification
  • Copies of birth and marriage certificates, inventory of household goods, bank account numbers and other important documents
  • Maps
  • Extra car and house keys
  • Prescription medications

First Aid Kit Essentials

  • Adhesive Bandages
  • Antacid
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Anti-diarrheamedication
  • Antiseptic
  • Aspirin and non-aspirin pain reliever
  • Cleansing agents (isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, soap, germicide)
  • Cotton balls
  • First aid manual
  • Gauze pads and roll
  • Latex gloves
  • Laxative
  • Moist towelettes
  • Needle and safety pins
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Scissors
  • Sunscreen
  • Thermometer
  • Tongue depressors
  • Triangular bandages
  • Tweezers