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

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CONTENTS OF THIS SECTION:

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: debris, broken glass, and hanging objects such as tree limbs. Also, without proper sanitation, illness can occur to 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
	Soap and cleansing agent
	Several pairs of latex gloves
	Sunscreen
	2-inch and 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 of each)
	Triangular bandage
	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 opening
	Fire extinguisher (ABC type)
	Tube tent
	Hammer
	Screwdriver
	Pliers
	Wrench
	Tape (Duct and masking)
	Compass
	Matches in waterproof container
	Aluminum foil
	Plastic bags of various sizes (with zip lock top)
	Plastic storage bags
	Plastic storage container
	Signal flare
	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
	Blanket or sleeping bags
	Cots or lounge chair
	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 from dietary to walkers, and baby formula to prescription medicines.

BABY ITEMS

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

ADULT ITEMS

	Heart and high blood pressure medicine
	Insulin
	Other prescription drugs
	Contact lenses and cleansing supplies
	Extra sets 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
	Passport
	Social Security Card
	Immunization records
	Bank account numbers
	Credit card account numbers
	Inventory of valuable household goods such as pictures or videos
	Important telephone numbers
	Birth, marriage and death records