Emergency Food Supplies Checklist

A reliable supply of food and water can provide a crucial level of safety and security during an emergency. For instance, if you live in areas where snow blizzards are a regular occurrence, having a stockpile of necessary supplies will hold you and your family over until the electricity is turned back on and the roads cleared. When stocking your supplies, include foods that do not require cooking, refrigeration, water or special preparation. You may also wish to include nutritional supplements, such as vitamins and minerals, in your supply.

Food

• Canned food is an important part of any emergency stockpile. It can be kept in storage for up to one year, or up until the expiration date stamped on the product. A quality stockpile will include the following canned goods: canned fruit, such as peaches, pears and applesauce; canned meats, such as tuna, smoked oysters and sardines; canned soups, chili and stew; canned rice or soy milk; canned vegetables, such as green beans, corn and peas; jars of pasta, jelly and peanut butter; and canned broth, such as chicken, beef or vegetable. You may also include canned nuts and hard candy.

  Food that is dried and ready to eat is also an essential part of an emergency supply. These foods are generally good for up to six months, or the date listed on the label. An assortment of dried foods include: whole-grain crackers; dried fruit, such as apricots, prunes and cherries; dried meat, such as turkey or beef jerky; whole-grain cereals; and packaged snack cakes, granola bars and trail mix.

Water and Beverages

• An adequate supply of clean, drinkable water is the keystone of any emergency food supply. An average person will need to drink at least 2 qt. of water every day. Water will also be required for hygiene and food preparation. Therefore, plan to store at least one gallon of water per person, per day, for at least two weeks. If you cannot store the recommended amount, simply store as much as you can. The best way to store water is to buy bottled water at the store and keep it in its original containers. If you opt to store your own water, place it in containers specifically made for water storage, or soda bottles. You may also add canned fruit juices to supplement your drinking supply.

Miscellaneous

• Beyond the basics, you may also want to add the following supplies to your stockpile: bouillon products; salt and pepper; non-carbonated soft drinks; powdered milk that is in nitrogen-packed cans; instant coffee and tea; baking powder and wheat; and eating utensils. If you have pets, don’t forget to include dog or cat food, as well as treats. Also remember to include enough water for your pets.