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Survival kit: Stock up on essentials for a disaster

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Survival kit: Stock up on essentials for a disaster

Survival kit — Use this checklist to get ready for a pandemic.

In a disaster, keep in mind that neighborhood grocery stores and gas stations may run out of supplies. Essential services such as electricity, telephone and health care may be disrupted or shut down. Be prepared by assembling a survival kit to get you through these tough times.

You should have supplies to last everyone in your household — including pets — at least two weeks. Store supplies in a cool, dry place in easy-to-carry containers in case there's a need to evacuate. Check and replace any supplies past their expiration dates. Adapt this supply list to suit your specific needs.

SURVIVAL KIT CHECKLIST
Water
  Plan on 1 gallon per person per day, for drinking and for sanitation.
Food
  Select foods that require no refrigeration, have a long shelf life, and require little or no water to prepare. This may include ready-to-eat canned goods, protein bars, dried fruit and crackers.
Hygiene and sanitation
  N95 respiratory masks or comparable make
  Moist towelettes
  Alcohol-based, waterless hand sanitizer
  Toothpaste and toothbrush
  Toilet paper and paper towels
  Garbage bags, heavy duty, and ties
Prescribed medications
  Store at least a one-month supply.
First-aid kit
  Rubber gloves
  Cleansing agent (soap or towelettes)
  Antibiotic ointment and burn ointment
  Cold packs
  Adhesive bandages, cotton balls and swabs
  Sterile dressing, tape and elastic wrap
  Thermometer
  Tweezers, sharp scissors, spoon
  Eyewash solution
  Medication for fever and pain relief, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
  Anti-diarrheal medication
  Antihistamines
Tools
  Manual can opener
  Eating utensils
  Flashlight
  Light sticks
  Radio, battery powered
  Batteries
  Matches, in waterproof container
  Duct tape
  Knife
  Wrench or pliers
Additional items
  Cash and coins
  Special needs such as inhalers, contact lenses, extra eyeglasses and hearing aid batteries
  Copies of credit cards, bank numbers, important documents, medical prescriptions, driver's licenses and passports
  Keys, extra sets
  Feminine hygiene supplies
  Infant supplies
  Recreational materials
  Food and supplies for pets
Items for evacuation
  Blankets or sleeping bags
  Change of clothing and footwear
  Bathing supplies
  Raincoat

Last Updated: 12/18/2006
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