An emergency kit should sustain your family for 3 days in case of disaster.
An emergency kit can be vital in case of disaster, when running water, electricity and other utilities may be out of service for days. It is recommended that you assemble a kit that can sustain your family for three days. Items should be kept in a watertight container stored in a place to which you have easy access, in case you have to evacuate your home quickly. Does this Spark an idea?
Food and Water
Food and water to sustain your family for three days iare vital to an emergency kit.
It is recommended to have three gallons of water for each family member for drinking and sanitation. Food should be nonperishable and enough to feed all family members for three days. Include a non-electric can opener, plates, cups and utensils. Unscented bleach and an eye dropper are handy for purifying water. Sixteen drops of bleach will purify a gallon of water. Include pet food and water if you have any pets.
Medical Supplies
A dust mask for each family member will be needed if air contamination occurs.
A first aid kit with instructions should be in the emergency kit, along with any medications or prescriptions needed by family members. If anyone wears glasses or a hearing aid, include an extra. Dust masks should be packed in case the air becomes contaminated. If there is a baby in your household, include diapers and infant formula. Moist wipes, soap, hand sanitizer and heavy duty plastic bags or buckets should be packed for sanitizing items and waste. Remember feminine hygiene products and extra toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Tools
Don't forget to pack a flashlight in your emergency kit with extra batteries.
Include plastic sheeting, a utility knife, hammer and nails, duct tape or a staple gun to cover windows. A crowbar and adjustable wrench may also come in handy to turn off utilities or pry open a blocked doorway. A pocket knife is handy, as it has a multitude of tools and is very compact. A flashlight and battery-powered radio are important for getting around with no lights and receiving information. Don’t forget extra batteries. A fire extinguisher and matches kept in a watertight container are also recommended. A whistle could be a way to call for help. A permanent marker, paper and tape may also be used to make signs that you need help.
Personal Items
Money in small denominations, such as coins, may be just the thing you need in a disaster.
Include extra clothes that provide adequate coverage, including heavy shoes for each person. If you live in a cold or rainy climate, include cold weather or rain gear. Make copies of important documents: insurance information, bank records, allergy information and identification for each family member. Current photos of all family members, including pets, are a good idea, as well as phone numbers of emergency contacts. Make copies of your house and car keys to add to the kit. Each family member will need a sleeping bag or blanket. You may want to add more if you live in a cold climate. Include playing cards and games for children, as waiting out a disaster may leave some idle hours. Keep some cash in your kit as well, in small denominations. Coins could be used for making phone calls.
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