Last week, I discussed the logistics of Emergency Preparedness, and now it is time for the Kit!
Preparing for a natural disaster or any emergency is not my favorite thing to do and I am sure it is not yours either. It can feel like a doomsday or grim thing to do. However, taking the time to get your kit together is not only important for your family but it can give you piece of mind. Case in point, living in Los Angeles, we have minor earthquakes that used to scare me. Then one day, I realized that while the earthquakes were upsetting it was the fact that my kit was not together that was making me anxious. Every time the shaking starting, I would think, “Maybe this is the big one and I am not prepared!” While, I may be a bit of spaz, take it from me having a kit together is worth the time and effort!
Here is a rundown of the major areas of the emergency kit. For a full list with examples, check out the Printable Emergency Preparedness Kit List.
Container: A container is important to hold all of your kit together. This will (hopefully) limit the items getting separated or misplaced. Also, consider having backpacks in the kit in case you or your family needs to carry anything.
Medical Supplies: Include any medications, prescriptions, inhalers, etc. Basically, any items that you or your family members cannot survive without or would impact a person’s life. A first aid kit and emergency reference material is important for injuries or illness. Also, consider adding bug spray.
Kitchen Supplies: This includes everything that you would need to make, eat, and use to make a meal for your family. You may want to purchase a camping stove to allow for cooking or boiling water. Also, include pans, pots, and cooking utensils.
Food and Water: The rule of thumb with water is 1 gallon per day, per person. Make sure you have at least three days worth of water. The water is for drinking, bathing, and any other uses.
As with water, food needs to be stockpiled for three days. Many people like to gather can goods, single package foods, or anything with a long shelf life. Some people even buy dehydrated or self-heating foods.
Household Items: This includes many safety items, including fire extinguisher, matches, candles, radios, batteries, dust masks, and tools.
Cleaning Supplies: This is any items that would help sanitize, clean up messes, or hold trash. Everything from paper towels to bleach would apply here.
Personal Hygiene Items: Staying clean during an natural disaster can help keep your family free of illness. Anything you need to keep clean goes into your kit.
Sleeping Supplies: Blankets, pillows, or sleeping bags are items that will help with sleeping as soundly as possible. Also, consider a tent to help protect against the elements.
Important Documents: Including any important documents, like insurance policies, IDs, bank account info, and contact information for family, local shelters, and any other info that may be stored in a cell phone. Another important item is cash that is small and large denominations. This will help with any purchases you may need to make. Also, consider adding backups of digital photos or anything that is irreplaceable. Place these documents in a plastic sealable bag to protect them.
Change of Clothes: Include a least one change of clothes for each member of the family. Depending on where you live you may need to adjust what clothes you put in your kit. If in doubt, put clothes in that can be wore for the coldest and warmest days for your location.
Babies, Toddlers, and Kids: This may be one of the hardest areas in the kit as kids needs may change rapidly. With that said, think about the items you would most need. This usually includes everything from bottles to diapers. Also, include toys, games, books, or other activities to keep the kids entertained. Update this part of the kit as needed.
Pets: These guys are often extensions of our families, which is why it is important to include items for them in the kit. Include food, extra leashes and collars, toys, medicines, and carriers.
Miscellaneous: Personal items or things that are unique to your families needs. Also, include any items that are specific to your area or the natural disasters that may occur.
Tips and Tricks:
Putting Kit Together: Assembling a kit can seem like a major project and it can be. Think of it like packing for a camping trip. It may be easier for you to put the kit together over time and if you choose to do this start with the most important items first. Or you may want to set aside a weekend and get the family involved in assembling the kit.
Storage: Make sure that the kit is stored in a dry, cool, and accessible spot. Depending on your home you may be able to store the whole kit in one spot. If not, then it may be necessary to store parts of the kit in different areas. Some people even keep smaller kits in their cars.
Maintenance: It is important to keep your kit up to date and well stocked. Set up at least two times per year to give your kit some love.
Things to check:
Expiration Dates – food, medicine, etc. is up to date.
Missing Items – replace any items that may have been taken out
Update your Kit – as your family’s needs change. Take out any old items, add new things, and update documents.
Container is Secure – i.e. no pests have caused damage.
Do you have an Emergency Kit together? What items do you put in yours? Questions? Comments? Put it below!
Prepared and Safe,
Mrs. Know it All
Sources:
How to Put Together an Emergency Preparedness Kit Blog and Ready.gov website
