What to include in your disaster readiness kit
1. Water – Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person, or about three gallons. Approximately two quarts will be for drinking and two quarts for food preparation and sanitation needs each day.
a. If you have pets, be sure to store an extra supply of water for them as well
b. Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh
2. Non-perishable food – Keep a three-day supply of non-perishable food in your disaster kit. Try to select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking. If you have young children, consider adding a few of their favorite non-perishable snacks.
a. Pack a non-electric (manual) can opener and bottle opener with your food supply
b. Replace stored food every six months.
3. First-aid supplies Keep first aid supplies such as antiseptic, non-prescription drugs (pain relievers, antacids, etc.), sterile adhesive bandages/gauze pads, tweezers, assorted sizes of safety pins, scissors and moistened towelettes in the disaster kit.4. Extra clothing/bedding – Keep at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person.
a. If you live in a rainy or cold weather climate, consider including an extra set of thermal underwear, hats and gloves, or rain gear.
b. Extra blankets or a sleeping bag should also be packed.
5. Tools & emergency supplies: Keep additional emergency supplies such as battery-operated radio, flashlights, extra batteries, cash or an extra credit card, disinfectant, such as household chlorine bleach, fire extinguisher and matches in a waterproof container all items should be stored in a central location.6. Other special items There are many miscellaneous items used every day that are easily overlooked. Below are some extra items to remember for your kit:
a. Prescriptions: Ensure that at least a three-day supply of prescription medication is available in the disaster kit.
b. Eye wear: If you wear contacts, pack a spare set of glasses and extra contact lens supplies.
c. Diapers and Formula: Families with young children may need to pack additional items, such as diapers, formula, clean bottles, etc.
d. Important records: Keep important documents in a waterproof, portable container. These records could include insurance policies, deeds, bank account numbers and credit cards, family records (birth, marriage, death certificates), inventory of valuable household goods and important telephone numbers.
A full list of needed supplies can be found at nsf.com/consumer/newsroom/fact_disaster_checklist.asp