You should create a kit with emergency survival supplies that you may need during and after disasters such as hurricanes. Here are some of the items that your kit should include:
- Cash or travelers checks. You won't be able to use ATMs and Pay-At-The-Pump services if the power is out.
- A battery-operated radio and spare batteries
- A flashlight for each person and spare batteries
- A week's supply of water - one gallon per person per day
- A fire extinguisher
- A week's supply of non-perishable food, plus a manual can opener, paper plates, plastic cups and utensils. Good choices are crackers, peanut butter, canned fruit, raisins and other dried fruit, canned beans, beverages such as fruit juices and milk in cans or boxes, canned soup, granola bars, cold cereal, instant coffee, hard candy, tea bags, cookies and seasonings.
- Plastic containers to hold dry foods, spare batteries, duct tape and matches
- A four-week supply of prescription medications
- A first-aid kit
- Rain gear
- Trash bags
- Matches (in a waterproof container)
- Pet food (if you have pets)
- Insect repellent
- Charcoal
- Ice and cooler
- Plastic tarps
- Unscented, regular strength bleach or other water purification aids
Books and games- Sunscreen
- A camera and spare batteries. You will want to take pictures of your house, inside and outside, for insurance purposes. Store in a waterproof container.
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Moist towelettes
- Duct tape
- Sewing kit
- Hat and work gloves
- Sunglasses
Important documents stored in a waterproof container. These documents should include immunization records, passports, wills, insurance policies, deeds, contracts, stocks and bonds, social security cards and birth certificates.- Bedding or sleeping bags
- Extra clothing
- Paper and pen
- Basic tool kit
- Personal hygiene and toiletry items. Don't forget soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste.
- Cleaning supplies including disinfectant, towels, buckets, mops, etc.
Special Needs Items
As you put your kit together, be sure to take in the "special needs" of family members. These individuals include infants, the elderly and persons with disabilities or serious illnesses.
- For Baby:
- Formula (Preferably pre-prepared)
- Diapers
- Bottles
- Powdered milk
- Baby food
- Medications
- Moist towelettes/baby wipes
- Diaper rash ointments
- For Adults:
- Ask your doctor about storing prescription medications such as heart and high blood pressure medications, insulin and other prescription drugs.
- Denture needs
- Contact lenses and supplies
- Extra eyeglasses
- Walking canes, walkers, etc.
- Oxygen tank