Are you and your family prepared for a disaster? Could you survive for three days following a devastating hurricane, tornado or ice storm? What about a chemical leak? There are steps you can take now to be prepared when disaster strikes. Every family should have a portable, 72-hour disaster kit that is easily located and carried. In the event that you need to leave your home or shelter in place, the basic supplies in your kit will help tide you over until the threat has passed.

Why Do You Need One?

After a disaster of any type, public services will be overwhelmed with calls, and chances are there won't be enough resources to respond to everyone right away. Roads may also be blocked, and conditions may prevent rescue personnel from entering your neighborhood. In order to survive until help does arrive, it is imperative to assemble some basic supplies beforehand.

What to Include

Nourishment: water, non-perishable food, plastic forks and spoons, disposable plates and bowls and a can opener. You need one gallon of water per person per day for three days. Personal hygiene: first aid kit, prescription medications, infant formula and diapers, a change of clothing for each family member, toilet paper, baby wipes, garbage bags, feminine hygiene items and blankets. Safety: battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries stored separately, a whistle to signal for help, photos of your family members in case you get separated, plastic sheeting and duct tape for covering vents, a wrench to turn off utilities, rope, matches stored in a waterproof container and diluted bleach to purify water. Pets: pet food, collapsible water bowls and an extra leash. Miscellaneous: important family documents, extra cash (stored in a waterproof container), paper, pencils, markers, books, playing cards, puzzles to keep children occupied, a phone list of important contacts, spare car keys and an extra cell phone charger.

How to Get Started

Your disaster kit can be assembled over a few shopping trips so it doesn't weigh too heavily on your pocketbook. Remember to look for ready-to-eat food items that offer the most energy and nutrition. Rather than buying drinks, choose a variety of powdered mixes to store with your water supply.

Storage

Ideally, your kit should be in a rolling suitcase that's large enough to store everything but small enough to handle if you have to leave quickly. Keep it in a place that's easily accessed, such as a closet or under the bed.

Maintenance

Food items in your disaster kit should be rotated out every six months; eat the food that has been stored and replace it over a few grocery store trips. Bottled water is good for one year.

Source:

Community Emergency Response Team