Family Disaster Kit

When a disaster strikes, there may not be time to create a list of things you need, to locate them, and to pick them up. You should develop your list of needed supplies prior to a disaster. If possible, have supplies pre-packaged in water-resistant containers so they are ready to go when needed.

Container/Storage Options

• Large, covered trash container
• Camping backpack
• Duffle bag
• Plastic, snap-lid container sold at most variety stores

Water

• Large thermos-type containers
• Empty, plastic, gallon-water containers, such as the type sold at grocery stores containing commercial-spring or distilled water. These containers are reusable if they have screw-on-type lids
• Plan for a five-day supply of water
• Pre-bottled water should be replaced every six months
• Plan for a gallon of water a day, per person. Remember that water will be used not only for drinking, but also for food preparation and sanitation. Don’t under estimate your needs!

Food

• Plan for a five-day supply of non-perishable foods
• Plan to use non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration and need minimal preparation and water
• Use canned meats, fruits and vegetables
• Use canned Sterno for foods that require heating

First Aid Kit

During disasters we are more prone to injuries. Sources of injuries are plentiful, including debris, broken glass, and hanging objects such as tree limbs. Also, without proper sanitation, illness can happen in otherwise-healthy people. Two kits are recommended— a kit for your home and a travel-kit for each vehicle.

• Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
• Assorted sizes of safety pins
• Several pairs of latex gloves
• Sunscreen
• 2-inch and 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 of each)
• Triangular bandage(s)
• Non-prescription drugs
• 2-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls)
• 3-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls)
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Needle
• Moistened towelettes
• Antiseptic
• Thermometer
• Tongue blades
• Petroleum jelly

Non-Prescription Drugs

• Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
• Anti-diarrhea medication
• Antacid
• Syrup of Ipecac (causing vomiting if advised to do so by the Poison Control Center)
• Laxative
• Activated charcoal (used under the advice of the Poison Control Center)
• Medicine dropper

Tools and General Supplies

• Mess kit, paper cups, plates, and utensils
• Emergency information (pamphlets, brochures, and other reference material)
• Cash, travelers checks, change (if electrical power is lost, credit cards cannot be used)
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• Manual can opener
• Fire extinguisher (ABC type)
• Tube tent
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Wrench
• Tape (Duct and Masking)
• Compass
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Aluminum foil
• Various sizes of plastic, re-sealable, zipper-top storage bags
• Signal flare
• Compass
• Needles and thread
• Whistle (to signal)
• Plastic sheeting
• Various area maps

Sanitation

• Toilet paper
• Towelettes
• Liquid soap and detergent
• Feminine hygiene supplies
• Personal hygiene supplies
• Plastic bucket with tight lid (can serve as a toilet)
• Plastic garbage bags (toilet inserts)
• Disinfectant
• Household chlorine bleach

Clothing and Bedding

• Several days' change of clothing
• Several pairs of strong shoes
• Rain gear
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Cots or lounge chairs
• Hat and gloves
• Sunglasses
• Thermal underwear in the winter

Special-Need Items

• Ask your doctor and pharmacist about storing prescription medicines
• Remember the requirements of those family members with special needs. These can vary, and can include things like dietary needs, walkers, baby formula, and prescription medicines

Baby Items

• Formula
• Diapers
• Bottles
• Powdered milk
• Medications
• Carriage or port-a-crib
• Familiar toys

Adult Items

• Heart and/or high-blood-pressure medicine
• Insulin
• Other prescription drugs
• Contact lenses and cleaning supplies
• Extra pairs of glasses

Entertainment

• Board games
• Books and magazines
• Playing cards
• Toys for small children

Important Documents

• Keep records in watertight plastic containers if possible
• Wills
• Insurance policies
• Contracts and deeds
• Stocks and bonds
• Passports
• Social Security Cards
• Immunization Records
• Bank account numbers
• Credit card account numbers
• Inventory of valuable household goods such as pictures and/or videos
• Important telephone numbers
• Birth, marriage, and death records