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What Do I Need to Have Stockpiled for Surviving an Emergency?

An emergency, such as a disastrous flood, tornado, earthquake or other unexpected situation, can leave you feeling helpless and afraid for the safety of your family. Packing an emergency supply kit and putting it in a designated location helps ease concern for your loved ones in the event of an emergency. Stockpiling necessary supplies at home and informing your family of their location, and placing a smaller emergency kit in your car or your workplace ensures that you can survive for a few days until help arrives.

  1. Nutrition

    • Water is one of the most vital necessities during an emergency. Allow 1 gallon per person for a minimum of three days. Invest in non-perishable foods, such as canned foods, dry mixes and other staples. Try to avoid high sodium foods since they increase your thirst. Include baby formula or baby food if there is an infant in your family. Add canned pet food and extra water if you have a family pet. Don't forget to put a can opener in with the food supplies.

    Electronics

    • A cellphone and a charger may be a lifesaver in an emergency. Other helpful items are a whistle and a fire extinguisher. A radio/alarm/light combo that you can power by turning a hand crank is useful in listening to the latest news bulletins, providing light and signaling emergency assistance. Stock flashlights and plenty of extra batteries for them and any other battery-operated electronics.

    First Aid and Sanitation

    • A first aid kit helps guard against infections due to cuts and minor injuries during an emergency. A medicine dropper is handy to make a disinfectant and cleaning product. Just add nine parts water to one part regular chlorine bleach. Moist towelettes are effective for personal sanitation. Stock sanitary napkins and toilet tissue as well.

    Comfort

    • Pack a of change of clothes and a pair of sturdy shoes for each person with your supplies. Add sleeping bags or blankets and pillows. Prescription medicines and a spare pair of prescription glasses are important considerations for individuals who require them. Contact lens solutions and hearing aid batteries are useful as well.

    Miscellaneous Supplies

    • Local maps, garbage bags and a pair of pliers come in handy during an emergency. Waterproof matches, paper towels and plates, plastic silverware and drinking cups are also important. Pack paper and pencils or crayons, games, playing cards, puzzles and books to entertain children and adults who may be cooped up for long periods. Have enough cash to last a few days, as banks and ATMs may not be operational.

    Automobile Supplies

    • Along with other basis necessities, keep a jumper cable and flares to help keep your vehicle operational or to signal for help. Remember not only food, water and first aid, but blankets and other supplies in case of an emergency during extreme weather. Always have a spare tire, and don't allow your gas tank to go below a quarter of a tank. Gas pumps may not be operational for a couple of days after an emergency or they might not work for even longer.

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