Top Items Every Family Needs In A Disaster Supply Kit

You hope you'll never need it, but a disaster supply kit should always be kept readily available in case of an emergency that either knocks out your power or forces your family to evacuate. Make sure your supply kit is housed in a waterproof, transportable container and is easily accessible. It is also important that its whereabouts are known to all members of the household. Make sure to check your kit once per year and to discard and replenish items as needed, based upon their expiration dates. Here are some of the most important items you should include.

Food – Have at least a one- to two-week supply of food on hand for each household member and pets. When deciding what to pack, avoid foods that generate thirst or require cooking. Canned and packaged goods such as salt-free tuna, canned, unsalted vegetables and peanut butter are good choices. Air-tight, vitamin-enriched emergency food packs are also available for purchase through a variety of manufacturers that typically have a shelf-life of up to five years. If you have a baby in the house, pre-packaged, ready-to-use sterilized formula is a must, even if you are breast feeding.

Water – Your water supply needs to be ample enough for drinking, bathing and food preparation or cleaning. One gallon per day per person is a good rule of thumb, although more may be needed during hot months or for individuals who are ill. Preparation is key, but Homeland Security guidelines for water usage include a warning to not ration water if you are running low, but to drink it as needed with the intention of looking for more on subsequent days. Make sure you have enough water for your pets to drink as well. It is also a good idea to pack a supply of water purification tablets.

List of Important Telephone Numbers In A Waterproof Pouch – In today's digital age, many people do not memorize the telephone numbers of their close family members. Even if you have committed those numbers to memory, you may forget them if you become disoriented or are under stress, both common reactions to an emergency. Make sure to write down the telephone numbers of every household member's school, place of business or other frequented locations, as well as the numbers of extended family members, neighbors and friends. Each person in the household should also have their doctor's telephone number on the list with their specialty clearly indicated. If your local police or fire precincts have telephone numbers where they can be reached other than 911, make sure to record those as well. Find out ahead of time where your local shelter is and what that number is to record. The list should be typed or neatly printed and large enough for the oldest person in the household to read, even if they cannot readily find their glasses.

Identification Papers In A Waterproof Pouch – IDs such as a driver's license, passport, birth certificates and social security cards may come in handy. Also make sure to include your health insurance cards and any other papers of relevance, such as a green card or visa.

Cash – If the power goes out, ATMs will not be available, but you may still need to gas up the car or purchase ancillary supplies. The amount of cash you keep on hand should be based on the number of individuals in your household but you should always have at least $500 handy if possible.

Prescription Medications – A one-month's supply of any prescription medications should be kept on hand, but make sure to double check the expiration dates periodically.

First Aid Kit - This should include alcohol swabs, band aids, ace bandages and OTC medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen as well as antibiotic ointment. Other over-the-counter drugs that you might wish to include are antacids or other go-to medications your family typically uses.

Clothing and Personal Supplies – Pack at least a one-week's amount of clothing per season including extra sneakers, waterproof boots and rain-proof ponchos. Think durable and practical rather than cutting-edge fashion when deciding what to pack. Tampons, sanitary napkins and diapers as well as other personal hygienic supplies should be included.

Portable Generator – If the power fails, a portable generator will be a life saver, whether you are staying put or evacuating your home. Many models are available for under $1,000. You can opt for diesel or gas fuel types, but make sure the generator you choose is compliant with your own state's regulations.

Additional Items To Pack Include:

• Flashlight
• Battery-Operated Radio and Batteries
• All-Purpose Charger
• Wearable, Non-Plastic Whistle
• Light Sticks
• Dust Masks
• POGO Bar For Turning Off Gas Lines
• Waterproof Matches
• Portable Latrine, Toilet Paper and Moist Towelettes

Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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