Tips for an Emergency Kit Checklist

Living in an area with frequent thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards or other form of bad weather, requires preparation for a potential weather threat with an emergency preparedness kit. Customize kits based on the number of people and pets in the home. Include three days of food and water for each family member.

Water

• Set up an emergency preparedness kit with one gallon of water per day per person in the household. A three-day kit for four people requires 12 gallons of water. Purchase water in sealed plastic containers and change out water stores every six months. Use water for drinking, preparing foods and personal hygiene.

Food

• Add non-perishable foods for each person in the household. Include three days of food per person. Remember to include food for pets. Most nonperishable foods are stored in cans so pack two manual can openers in the emergency kit. Try to include foods from all food groups, including meats, fruits, vegetables and dairy. Pack extra water for dried milk to reconstitute as needed. Pack comfort staples like sugar, instant coffee, powdered creamer and hard candy.

Medications and Prescriptions

• Keep one week's worth of prescription medications in a waterproof bag in the emergency kit. Replace medications with fresh supplies every time you refill a prescription. Include eye glasses or contact lenses with prescription medications. If medications require refrigeration, keep a small cooler near the refrigerator and ice packs in the freezer for quick packing in case of an emergency. Pack medical supplies like syringes and first aid supplies with prescription medications.

Contact Information

• Print contact information for friends, family members, fire departments and ambulance services off on one sheet of paper. Include emergency contact information for utilities on the list. Laminate the list of emergency contact information or place in a sealed, waterproof plastic bag. Pack a copy of emergency contact numbers with medications and food. Include a copy in your wallet or purse.

Medical Records

• Keep a copy of medical records on-hand in case of an emergency. If you or a family member has a severe medical condition that requires regular medical care or emergency medical care, order a medical alert bracelet. Conditions like diabetes, severe food allergies and asthma fall into this category.

Generator

• If a member of the household requires care that utilizes electricity, such as a home IV, keep a generator near the home. If electricity goes out during the emergency, the generator provides enough electricity to maintain care until emergency services arrive.