Family Disaster Supplies Kit

Family Disaster Supplies Kit

Disasters happen anytime and anywhere. And when disaster strikes, you may not have much time to respond. A highway spill of hazardous material could mean instant evacuation. A flood, tornado or any other disaster could cut off basic services - gas, water, electricity and telephones-for days.

After a disaster, local officials and relief workers will be on the scene, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it may take days. Would your family be prepared to cope with the emergency until help arrives? Your family will cope best by preparing for disaster before it strikes. One way to prepare is by assembling a Disaster Supply Kit. Once disaster hits, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. But if you've gathered supplies in advance, you family can endure an evacuation or home confinement.

TO PREPARE YOUR FAMILY KIT

Review the checklist below.
Gather the supplies that are listed. You may need them if your family is confined at home.
Place the supplies you'd most likely need for an evacuation in an easy-to-carry container.

SUPPLIES

There are six basics you should stock in your home: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies and special items.

Water - three day supply of one gallon per person per day.
Food - Store at least a three day supply of non-perishable food. If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno.
First Aid Kit - Assemble a first aid kit for you home and one for each car.

SANITATION

Toilet papers, toweletts
Soap, liquid detergent
Feminine supplies
Personal Hygiene items
Plastic garbage bags and ties. For personal sanitation uses.
Plastic bucket with tight lid
Disinfectant
Household chlorine bleach

CLOTHING AND BEDDING

At least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person.
Sturdy shoes or work boots
Rain Gear
Blankets and/or sleeping bags
Hat and gloves
Sunglasses

SPECIAL ITEMS:

Remember family members with special needs, such as infants, elderly, or disabled persons.

For Baby: Formula, diapers, bottles, powdered milk, and medications.
For Adults: Heart and high blood pressure medication, insulin, prescription drugs, denture needs, contact lens and supplies, extra eye glasses, and entertainment.

IMPORTANT FAMILY DOCUMENTS:

Keep these records in a waterproof, portable container.

Will, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds.
Passports, social security cards, immunization records.
Bank account numbers.
Credit card account numbers and companies.
Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers.
Family Records including birth, marriage, and death certificates.

SUGGESTIONS AND REMINDERS

Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members. Keep a smaller version of the Disaster Supplies Kit in the trunk of your car.
Keep items in air tight plastic bags.
Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh.
Rotate your stored food every six months.
Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year. Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.
Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications.