Hopefully it is something you will never need but it’s an excellent idea to be prepared and have supplies ready ahead of time. We see, hear or read the news daily about fires (especially this time of year), storms, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, volcanic activity, etc. Just about every part of North America as well as many other countries around the world are susceptible to natural disasters of some type.
Others are prone to human-caused disasters such as fire and vehicle-related. You just may want to take heed ahead of time and keep an emergency supply or survival kit nearby or close at hand. And the do-it-yourself kind is the way to go. Let this checklist below be a guide for you. Print it out and keep it handy. Use it to put together a kit for yourself and family. Feel free to customize it to your families own personal needs.
The most important thing is to plan ahead and start assembling these items NOW!
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money, and I would really NOT recommend buying the ready-made or pre-packed kits from a store. You can easily put together your own kit with better quality items. A large number of these items can be found around the house if you look for them. Another idea, if you already own a vacuum-sealer (such as a Food Saver), you can even seal clothing to make sure they stay dry.
Supplies For Your Emergency & Disaster Supply Kit
Water – at least 1 gallon per day / per person for approximately 3 to 7 days
__ Food – at least enough for approximately 3 to 7 days
__ non-perishable packaged or canned food
__ non-perishable packaged or canned juices
__ specialty foods for infants or the elderly (if applicable)
__ snack foods (chips, crackers, apples, oranges, energy bars, etc)
__ Utensils
__ non-electric can opener
__ cooking tools
__ portable camping stove and fuel
__ paper plates
__ plastic utensils
__ extra ziplock or sealable bags
__ extra garbage/trash bags (medium or large)
__ aluminum foil
__ twist ties, rubber bands, etc.
__ duct tape
__ bucket(s)
__ Swiss Army Knife / multi-purpose pocket knife
__ Lighter / Matches / Flint and Steel
__ Sleeping Gear
__ Blankets
__ Pillows
__ Sleeping Bags
__ Clothing – season appropriate
__ complete change of clothing (2-3 changes per person)
__ rain gear (if applicable)
__ sturdy shoes
__ First Aid Kit (new or fully stocked)
__ Medicines / Prescription Drugs (if applicable)
__ Specialty Items – for babies and the elderly (if applicable)
__ Toiletries / Hygiene items (include dental floss for multi-purpose use)
__ dental needs
__ hand sanitizer or moisture wipes
__ towels & washcloths
__ toilet paper
__ tissue paper
__ paper towels
__ Flashlight / Batteries
__ Portable Lantern
__ Light Sticks or Glow sticks
__ Radio – Hand-cranked or Battery operated + NOAA weather radio (if possible)
__ Phones
__ fully charged cell phone with extra battery
__ traditional (not cordless) telephone set
__ Cash (with some small bills)
__ Credit Cards – Keep in mind that Banks and ATM’s may not be available for extended periods
__ Keys
__ Toys, Books and Games (age appropriate)
__ paper, drawing pads, pencils, pens, crayons, etc.
__ Important Documents – in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
__ Insurance information
__ Medical records
__ Bank account numbers
__ Social Security card
__ Drivers License/ID Card
__ Personal phone book of family, relatives, friends, work associates, etc.
__ Tools – you should keep a set in your vehicle
__ foldable shovel, axe, hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, etc.
__ rope
__ Vehicle Fuel Tanks Filled
__ Pet care items (if applicable)
__ proper identification / immunization records / medication
__ ample supply of food and water
__ a carrier or cage
__ muzzle and leash
EASY ACCESS AND A VISUAL REMINDER