BUILD A KIT

A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need, in the event of an emergency or disaster. Most of the items are inexpensive and can be easily stored. After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Your disaster supplies kit should have enough food, water and other supplies to sustain everyone in your home (including pets) for at least three days.

Recommended basic emergency supplies include:

• Water, one gallon per person per day for at least three days
• Food, at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a can opener if kit contains canned food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio, flashlight, and NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for all three
• Personal care items
• Cell phone and charger
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Local maps
• Pet food, extra water and supplies for your pet or service animal
• Cash or travelers checks in case you need to purchase supplies.

Consider Medical Needs

• Seniors and those with medical needs should keep specialized items ready and stocked if possible, including extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen, catheters, and medication. Keep a list of your devices and model numbers in your kit.
• Keep a list of your medications, including treatment protocols and dosages. Be sure to make provisions for medications that require special handling, such as refrigeration.
• Maintain a list of medical care, pharmaceutical, and equipment providers including phone numbers to ensure you can restock and receive care if you are away from home.
• Ensure service animals are considered as well. (Food, water, veterinary records)
• If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital or if you receive regular services such as home health care, treatment or transportation, talk to your service providers about their emergency plans.  Can they continue to provide care during a disaster?
• Work with your providers to identify back-up service providers within your area and the areas where you plan to evacuate.
• If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity to operate, talk to your health care provider about what you can do to prepare for its use during a power outage.

Important Documents

Prepare copies of your important documents for inclusion in your kit and documents in a waterproof container. Examples include:

• Insurance cards
• Family records
• Wills
• Power of attorney documents
• Deeds
• Social security numbers
• Credit card and bank information
• Tax records.
• Names and numbers of everyone in your personal support network and medical providers.

More information can be found at:  www.ready.gov/build-a-kit