When preparing for an emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth.

Recommendations for a Basic Emergency Supply Kit

• Water: 1 gallon per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.
• Food: at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• 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.
• Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).
• Local maps.

Additional Items

• Prescription medications and glasses.
• Infant formula and diapers.
• Pet food and extra water for your pet.
• Important family documents, such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records, in a waterproof, portable container.
• Cash or traveler's checks and change.
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.
• Complete change of clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper - When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color-safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
• Fire Extinguisher.
• Matches in a waterproof container.
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels.
• Paper and pencil.
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

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