Disaster Supply Kit

A disaster Supply Kit, which includes the items below, can be invaluable to you and your family in the days following a disaster. In a sturdy, portable container, keep the following on hand:

• A three day supply of drinking water, approximately one gallon per person per day. Children may need more.

• A three day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat food. It could include canned meats, fruits, vegetables; canned juices, milk, soup; staples such as sugar, salt, and pepper; high energy foods like granola, peanut butter, crackers; vitamins; foods for infants and special diets; comfort foods including cookies, hard candy, and sweetened cereals.

• A first aid kit. Include non-prescription drugs.

• Tools and supplies: flashlight, battery-operated radio, spare batteries, mess kits, can opener, knife, pliers, tape, compass, matches, aluminum foil, paper, pencil, needle, thread, wrench, whistle, tarp or tent.

• Sanitation supplies: toilet paper, soap, feminine supplies, toothbrush, toothpaste, garbage bags.

• Clothing. Have one change of clothing for each person. Consider including sunglasses, rain gear and thermal underwear.

• Bedding: blankets or sleeping bags.

• Special items: infant care items, prescription medicines, contact lenses and solution, games and books, copies of family documents, money, crayons and toys.

Store your kit in a convenient location that all family members know about. Remember to rotate your food every six months. Replace old batteries. Ask your physician about storing prescription medications. Rethink your needs at least once a year.