When it comes to being prepared for emergencies, one of the most crucial steps you can take is to assemble an emergency kit. An emergency kit is a collection of basic items that your household may need in the event of an emergency, particularly when you have to evacuate at a moment’s notice or sustain yourself if utilities are unavailable. Here’s what to include in your emergency kit to ensure you and your family are equipped to face unexpected situations:
Basic Supplies:
- Water: Aim for at least one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Keep at least a three-day supply for evacuation and a two-week supply for home.
- Food: Pack non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items. Include a three-day supply for evacuation and a two-week supply for home. Examples include canned goods, energy bars, dry cereals, and nuts.
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: A NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert will help you stay informed about severe weather updates and other emergency information.
- Flashlight: Have one or more flashlights with extra batteries.
- First-aid kit: Stock it with bandages, antiseptic wipes, prescription medications, pain relievers, and other personal medical supplies.
- Extra batteries: Keep an assortment of batteries for your flashlight, radio, and other battery-operated devices.
- Whistle: To signal for help in case you are trapped or need to get someone’s attention.
- Dust masks: To help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to create a makeshift shelter.
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties: For personal sanitation.
- Wrench or pliers: To turn off utilities if necessary.
- Manual can opener: To open canned food if you’ve included it.
- Local maps: Especially if you are unfamiliar with the area or in case GPS is inaccessible.
Personal Items:
- Prescription medications and glasses: Maintain a supply as recommended by your physician, typically at least a one-week supply.
- Infant formula and diapers: If you have a baby, ensure you have a sufficient supply of necessary baby items.
- Pet food and extra water for your pet: Don’t forget supplies for any pets!
- Important family documents: Keep copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
- Cash: ATMs and credit card machines may not be working.
- Emergency blanket: Keeps you warm and can be used for signaling if it’s reflective.
- Change of clothing: Include a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes for each person.
Special Needs Items:
- Medical supplies: Hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.
- Baby supplies: Bottles, formula, baby food, and diapers.
- Games and activities for children: Books, puzzles, or other activities to keep kids occupied.
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket: For each person.
Tailor Your Kit:
The contents of your emergency kit should be tailored to the specific needs of your household. Consider the ages of family members, any medical conditions, personal preferences, responsibilities for assisting others, pets, and the environment where you live.
Maintenance:
Once your emergency kit is assembled, maintain it so it’s ready when needed:
- Store it in a cool, dry place.
- Keep canned food in a dry place where the temperature is cool.
- Replace expired items as needed; re-evaluate your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
- Replenish food, water, medications, and batteries immediately after use.
Remember, disasters can happen without warning, so it’s best to have your emergency kit assembled well in advance. By being prepared, you can alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that come with emergencies.