Your Emergency Preparedness Kit
The
basic items that should be stored in your home are water, food,
first-aid supplies, a fire extinguisher, clothing and bedding, tools,
emergency supplies and specialty items. Keep the items that you would
most likely need at home in one easy-to-carry container such as a trash
can, plastic storage container, camping backpack or duffel bag. Store it
in a convenient place, and put a smaller version in your car. Remember
to change the stored water and rotate the food supplies every six
months. Consult your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription
medications, and maintain a list of your prescription needs.
Water
Purchase bottled water, or store tap water in clean, airtight plastic
containers. Avoid containers that will decompose or break, such as glass
bottles. Plan to have one gallon of water per person per day available.
Water should be stored in a cool, dark place with the date labeled on
the container. Having some water purification tablets on hand could also
be useful in the event of an extended water service outage.
Food
Store a three- to five-day supply of nonperishable food per person.
Foods should require no refrigeration, preparation, or cooking, and
little or no water. Examples include: