Survival Supplies Checklist

Emergency situations can arise with minimal notice and can stem from unforeseen events, including natural disasters and terrorist acts. Services, including electricity, phone and water, may become unavailable and emergency personnel may encounter delays during rescue operations. Gathering survival supplies ahead of time provides you and your family with peace of mind and enables you to take quick action in the face of an emergency.

Basics

• Basic survival supplies will help support your food and water intake requirements when you're met with an emergency situation. Consider that each person requires one half gallon of drinking water each day, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, though FEMA recommends storing one gallon per person for each day, for a minimum of three days. Take into account that more water is required for hot or dry climates, the elderly and children. Also, assemble three days' worth of nonperishable food; for example, canned goods, powdered milk, trail mix and sweets. Ensure that supplies meet any specific dietary requirements--in the case of diabetics, for instance--and also plan on reserving an appropriate amount of pet food and water for your pets. Limit foods containing salt, and pack a manual can opener, along with eating utensils.

Health and Safety

• Store items related to health and safety in a backpack or other easily accessible and transportable container. Include medications, feminine hygiene products, an extra pair of glasses, a change of clothes, sleeping bag and first aid kit. The first aid kit should contain the basics: gauze, antibiotic ointments, Band-Aids, scissors, tweezers, alcohol swabs and aspirin. Also include antacids, latex gloves and anti-diarrhea medication. Blankets, flashlights, a battery-powered radio and extra batteries provide important warmth, light and news updates during emergencies. Other items to include in a survival kit include a solar cellphone charger, first aid book, whistle and flares.

Additional Items

• Organize and store personal and financial documents in a fireproof and waterproof safe or container. Include passports, birth certificates, mortgage and car loan information, copies of credit cards and bank account information. Also include cash and coins that may help should power disrupt technical machinery. Prepare ahead of time by placing eating utensils, paper plates, napkins, matches and garbage bags near emergency supplies. Consider gathering up books, games and puzzles to help pass the time. Be ready for a possible evacuation by preparing yourself with local maps in case normal travel routes close or become blocked.