How to Make At-Home Multi-Purpose Survival Kits

Survival kits are meant to assist you in case of emergencies, such as fires, blackouts, hurricanes, tornadoes or floods. While many stores sell pre-made survival kits, some families choose to make their own kits in order to personalize the items packed and ensure that each kit is used to the fullest. You should store your survival kit in an easily accessible place, such as by the front door or in the trunk of your car.

Things You'll Need

• Backpacks
• Climate-specific items
• First aid items
• Prescription medications
• Change of clothing
• Communication items
• Food
• Water

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Instructions

• 1

  Select sturdy, durable and waterproof backpacks to hold your survival supplies. Each member of your family should have his own backpack. Backpacks are preferable over other types of luggage, such as duffel bags or suitcases, because they are small and easy to transport.

• 2

  Pack climate-specific items, such as gloves, scarves, raincoats or sunscreen. Consider the area you live and the type of weather you most frequently encounter. Pack accordingly.

• 3

  Place bandages, gauze pads, scissors, tape and other medical-emergency supplies in your backpack. Pack items in zippered plastic bags to keep them organized and dry. Survival kits should include basic first aid items, but if you plan on traveling in case of emergency, pack more complex first aid items, such as a suture kit or surgical supplies.

• 4

  Pack prescription medications in your survival kit. In a disaster, you may not be able to get basic medications, so it is important to have at least a small supply of prescription medications, such as asthma, diabetes or allergy medicines on hand.

• 5

  Fold a set of clothing for each family member and pack them in your survival kits. Include a shirt, pants, socks, undergarments and a pair of shoes.

• 6

  Pack enough food and water to last each person at least three days. Select dried or canned foods that will retain their freshness after long periods of storage and in various weather conditions. Nuts, freeze-dried fruits, granola bars and Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) all have long shelf lives.

• 7

  Include communication tools, such as a hand radio or an emergency whistle. Pack an extra cell phone charger, but note that cell phones sometimes do not work in large-scale emergencies.