One of the best ways you can prepare for emergencies is to have enough supplies at home to feed and care for you and your family for at least three days following a crisis or disaster. This is called a 72 Hour Emergency Supplies Kit.
If it is safe to remain at home, people and pets will often be more comfortable and less stressed staying at home, versus relocating to an emergency shelter. Also, when residents who have been minimally impacted by a disaster can look after themselves, it allows emergency responders and municipal officials to focus on people who have perhaps suffered significant loss.
What to include in your kit
Store these items in an easy-to-carry container such as a duffel bag or plastic storage bin so that if you do need to leave home, you will easily be able to take your kit with you.
Your 72-HourEmergency Supplies Kit should include the following items:
- “special needs” items for any member of your household (i.e. baby formula, diapers, prescription medication etc.)
- first-aid supplies (bandages, adhesive tape, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic towelettes, cleansing agent or soap, cold pack, eyewash solution, cotton swabs, disposable gloves, gauze pads, hydrogen peroxide, lip balm etc.)
- a change of clothing for each household member (footwear as well)
- candles and matches or lighter
- a sleeping bag or bedroll for each household member (in case you have to evacuate)
- flashlight and batteries
- battery-powered radio and extra batteries
- duct tape
- non-perishable food (this should be replaced every year)
- bottled water
- whistle (in case you need to attract someone's attention)
- playing cards or games
- toilet paper and other personal care supplies
- extra car and house keys
- extra cash (change too – for vending machines etc.) and copies of important family documents (birth certificates, passports and licenses). Copies of essential documents should also be kept in a safe location outside your home – in a safe deposit box or the home of a friend or family member who lives out of town is a good idea.
Your 72 Hour Emergency Supplies Kit could prove to be very useful if electricity is lost or weather keeps you from leaving your home. You should bring your kit if you are advised to evacuate, so include any other items you think you might need. Being organized and having essential and comfort items with you will lessen the stress of evacuating.
Consider preparing an emergency kit for each of your vehicles as well. If you ever become stranded in a remote area or snowstorm, having some essential supplies may help keep you and your passengers safe.
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