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Basic 72-Hour Disaster Kit

This list includes basic items you should have on hand for a disaster.

 

Keep these items in a container that you can take with you if you need to evacuate, or locate them easily if you are staying put. This is not a "one size fits all" list, you should modify it to suit your circumstances. For example, you might want to add insect repellent and toothbrushes for personal comfort.

 

  • Water, one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation

  • Food, at least a three-day supply per person of non-perishable food

  • Battery-powered radio and extra batteries

  • Weather Alert radio and extra batteries

  • Flashlight and extra batteries

  • First Aid kit

  • Whistle to signal for help

  • Dust mask or cotton t-shirt, to help filter the air

  • Moist towelettes for sanitation

  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

  • Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

  • Unique family needs, such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers, and important family documents

  • Camping stove for food preparation and water sterilization (use outdoors)

  • Mess Kit

  • Extra fuel canisters for camping stove

  • Roll of toilet paper

  • Small garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

  • Water purification tablets and 1 qt container

 

 

Once you and your family are safe, if you will also be volunteering for Emergency Communications do not forget about your 72-Hour Emcomms Kit.

 

In addition to a First Aid Kit, you should also consider having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on hand in your disaster supplies and know how to use it.

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