Disaster Kits

One way to prepare ahead of time for a disaster is to assemble a family disaster kit. This kit should contain six basics of water, food, first aid supplies, clothing/bedding, tools, and special items. Keep items you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to-carry container such as a large, covered trash can, camping backpack, or a duffel bag. This should be stored in a convenient place known to all family members. Rethink your kit and family needs at least once a year and replace batteries, and update clothes. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about storing prescription medications. The following is a list of suggested supplies for the kit:

  • Water (stored in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles, avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles). Normally active people need to drink at least two (2) quarts of water each day. Hot environments and intense physical activity can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need more. Store one gallon of water per person per day (two quarts for drinking, two for food preparations, and sanitation). Keep at least a three day supply of water for each person in your household. Also, keep a supply of water purifying agents in the kit. Stored water should be changed every three months so it stays fresh.
  • Food, store at least a three day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, cooking, or preparation. Don't forget to pack a can opener. Stored food should be rotated every six months.
  • Milk (powdered or canned)
  • Vitamins
  • Smoked or dried meats
  • Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables
  • Staples (sugar, salt, pepper)
  • Soups (bouillon cubes or dried soups in a cup)
  • Stress foods (cookies, hard candy, sweetened cereals)
  • High energy foods (peanut butter, jelly, crackers, nuts, health food bars, trail mix)
  • First Aid Kit, should have at least two (one for your home and one for each car you drive). Basic first aid kits should include:
    • Sterile adhesive bandages
    • Thermometer
    • Tongue depressors
    • 1 dozen (12) 3-inch sterile gauze pads
    • Petroleum jelly
    • Safety pins
    • 3 Triangular bandages
    • Latex gloves
    • Non-prescription pain relievers
    • 3 rolls of 2 inch sterile rolled bandages
    • Anti-diarrhea medication
    • Needle
    • Bar of soap
    • Antacids
    • 1 dozen (12) Moist towelettes
    • Laxatives
    • Rubbing alcohol
    • 1 dozen (12) 2-inch sterile gauze pads
    • Sunscreen
    • Antiseptic spray
    • Adhesive tape
    • Scissors
    • Tweezers
    • Safety razor blade
  • Clothing and Bedding should include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person, as well as:
    • Sturdy shoes or work boots
    • Hats and gloves
    • Rain gear
    • Thermal underwear
    • Blankets or sleeping bags
    • Sunglasses
  • Tools and Supplies:
    • Mess kits or paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils
    • Battery operated radio and extra batteries
    • Cash or traveler's checks, change
    • Flashlight and extra batteries
    • Utility knife
    • Pliers
    • Tape
    • Compass
    • Matches in a waterproof container
    • Aluminum foil paper, pencil
    • Needle, thread
    • Medicine dropper
    • Whistle
    • Plastic sheeting
    • Map of the area (for locating shelters)
    • Toilet paper
    • Towels
    • Soap or liquid detergent
    • Personal Hygiene items
    • Plastic storage containers
  • Special Items, for family members with special needs such as infants, elderly or disabled persons. Also, consider packing small games for children and books for adults.
    • For Baby: Formula, Bottles, Medications, Diapers, Powdered Milk
    • For Adults: Heart and high blood pressure medication, Insulin, Denture needs, extra eyeglasses, prescription drugs, contact lenses and supplies.
  • Copies of important family documents should be packed in a waterproof portable container. These papers include:
    • Wills, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks, and bonds
    • Passports, social security cards, immunization records
    • Inventory of valuable household goods
    • Important telephone numbers
    • Family records (birth and marriage certificates)
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