Restock Emergency Supplies
Your emergency supplies kit is hopefully something that you’ll never have to use. However, if you do need it… you’ll want to make sure it’s stocked with the essentials! You should have enough supplies to last at least three days. Food, water, and medical supplies are obviously important but don’t forget to include solar chargers, books, board games, and cards to help pass the time.
What
A disaster supplies kit is simply a collection of basic items your household might need in the event of an emergency.
Why
You may need to survive on your own after an emergency without the help of others.
How
Your emergency supply kit should have your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours, according to FEMA. The idea is that local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they may not be able to reach everyone immediately.
At a minimum, you should have the basic supplies listed below:
- Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
- Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
- Multi-purpose tool
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
- Cell phone with chargers (solar, if possible)
- Family and emergency contact information
- Extra cash
- Emergency blanket
- Printed map(s) of the area
More info on what you should have and where to get these items can be found on www.redcross.org.
