Emergency Supplies Checklist
A disaster isn’t something that we want to think about, but are you prepared in the case of an emergency? In our area we are currently dealing with flooding and after that comes forest fire season. If disaster were to strike, would you be ready and would your family be able to get by? If not, then it’s time to start putting together an emergency supply checklist and making sure you have some important items on hand.
An emergency supplies checklist isn’t difficult to compile, but I have thought of some important items for you to consider, below. Start checking off your list and start building an emergency supply kit that will help you get through anything that may come your way. Especially power outages that can last for days.
Emergency Supplies Checklist
1. Water.
This is one of the top priorities. You should have a gallon of water per person, per day. Store water gallons in a dry and cool area where they are protected from the elements. You can even add some water purification tablets or the popular Lifestraw Personal Water Filter to your supply just in case you need to clean additional water.
2. Waterproof matches.
Matches will be vital in building a fire should you need to They are also what you may need for lighting your light sources such as gas lanterns and for cooking food. Be sure you have plenty of waterproof matches should the need for them arise. You can also include other heat/fire sources for back up such as lighters.
3. Non perishable foods.
Have plenty of non perishable foods or foods with lengthy expiration dates. Canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, pastas, juices, broths, and soups are all advised. Choose plenty of high in protein foods as well such as beans, granola, and supplements.
4. Manual Can Opener
To go along with your non perishable foods, you’ll want to have a manual can opener on hand so you can actually get access to your food!
5. Clothing.
Since you don’t know what the weather will be like, or if you will have heat, you want plenty of clothing options to keep you warm and dry. You should allow for several changes of clothes per person, along with extra socks, blankets and outdoor gear such as gloves and hats. Opt for waterproof clothing if possible and always choose durable pieces that will last.
6. Medications.
You should always have extra prescription medications on hand or at least the prescriptions for them. You also want general pain killers, antacids, bandages, and plenty of purified water for washing wounds. Look at the medicinal needs of your family and pack a medications kit accordingly.
7. Pet supplies.
Do you have a pet? You will want to include them in on your planning. Be sure you have an ample supply of pet food, medications, first aid items, blankets, and other items they may need. You will also want a list of any medications they are on as well as the vet’s contact information.
8. Light sources.
Gas lanterns, battery operated flashlights, and candles are all wonderful light sources. You can also opt for solar lights, but you don’t know what weather conditions will be like. Be sure you have at least one light source per person and plenty of batteries to back them up.
9. Power sources.
As mentioned above, power sources are important. This would include fuel for your lanterns, gas for gas operated stoves and lighters, batteries, and of course chargers. You most likely won’t be able to use the chargers via traditional electricity, but charged battery packs could prove helpful.
10. Entertainment items.
This seems frivolous, but entertainment items can prove useful and help everyone stay calm. Books and magazines, a deck of cards, board games, and other simple entertainment items are all great. They can help keep kids calm, develop a sense of normalcy, and help the time pass a bit quicker. You might want to consider a battery powered or crank radio as well.
11. Contact information.
Should you lose the power on your phone and have no way to charge it, would you have all of the contacts you need? Be sure you keep a good old fashioned contact book with important numbers and addresses. They may prove to be more useful than you think!
Preparing for an emergency doesn’t have to be expensive, time consuming, or scary. With this checklist you’ll definitely have some helpful ideas.
What else would you put in an emergency supplies kit?
