Assemble a Disaster Kit

You may need to survive on your own after a disaster. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days (for each family member). Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it might take days.

Basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days, or even a week or longer. Or, you may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You probably will not have the opportunity to shop or search for the supplies you need.

Basic Disaster Supplies

Water- Store one gallon of water per person per day in plastic containers for drinking and sanitation.

Food- Store food that won't go bad and does not have to be heated or cooked. Choose foods that your family will eat, including protein or fruit barsm dry cereal, granola, canned foods and juicesd, peanut butter, jerky, dried fruit, nuts, and crackers. Remember to pack a manual can opener, cups, and eating utensils.

Battery-powered radio- Remember to pack extra batteries.

Flashlight- Remember to pack extra batteries.

First Aid Kit

Whistle

Dust mask(s)

Moist towelettes or baby wipes

Toiletries- toothbrushes, towels, toilet paper, etc...

Wrench or pliers

Plastic sheeting and duct tape

Good walking shoes

Garbage bags

One month's supply of extra medication- Remember to include and periodically rotate medication you take everyday.

Keeping Warm- Include warm clothing for each family member. Also include a sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.

Special Items- Does your family have any unique needs? Remember to pack infant formula, bottles, diapers, baby food, pet food, feminine hygiene supplies, books, paper and pens and other forms of entertainment.

Kit Location

Make sure all family members know where your family kit is located and place the supplies in an easy to carry bag or plastic tub.

Maintenance

Check expiration dates on all canned foods and change out the water periodically.