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All Americans should have some basic supplies on hand in order to
survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs. Following
is a listing of some basic items that every emergency supply kit
should include. However, it is important that individuals review
this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of
their family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will
meet these needs. Individuals should also consider having at least
two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller
portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they
spend time.
Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:
- Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least
three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio
with tone alert and extra batteries for both
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic
sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal
sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
- Local maps
Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Infant formula and diapers
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance
policies, identification and bank account records in a
waterproof, portable container. You can use the EFFAK
(Emergency Financial First Aid Kit) developed by Operation
Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your
information
- Cash or traveler's checks and change
- Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or
information from www.ready.gov
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider
additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt,
long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if
you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper - When
diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be
used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to
treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid
bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or
bleaches with added cleaners.
- Fire Extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container - Feminine supplies and
personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper
towels
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
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