72 Hour Emergency Preparedness Kit
Office of Emergency Management
72 Hour Emergency Preparedness Kit
This kit is meant to provide for the basic needs of an individual or family for up to 72 hours in the event of an emergency or disaster. This household kit should include the following: WATER, FOOD, FIRST AID SUPPLIES, CLOTHING AND BEDDING, TOOLS AND SUPPLIES, AND SPECIAL ITEMS.
WATER- Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Keep at least a three day supply of water (one gallon of water per person--two quarts for drinking, two quarts for food preparation and sanitation) for each household member.FOOD- Store at least a three day supply of non-perishable food which may include the following: 1) ready-to-eat canned meat, and fruits; 2) Canned juices, milk, soups, and vegetables; 3) High energy foods such as peanut butter, trail mix, granola bars, and crackers; 4) Foods for infants, elderly or other people on special diets; 5) Stress food such as cookies, hard candy, and sweetened cereals; 6) Vitamins and staples (sugar, pepper,salt).
FIRST AID SUPPLIES- assemble (or purchase) a kit for your home and automobile. A first aid kit should include the following: 1) Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes; 2) Two and four inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 each); 3) Hypoallergenic adhesive tape; 4) Scissors, tweezers, needles, safety pins and a thermometer; 5) Antiseptic, cleaning agent or soap; 6) latex gloves (2 pair); 7) Sunscreen, and a tube of petroleum jelly; 8) Syrup of Ipecac (use to induce vomiting if advised by the Poison Control Center); 9) Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever; 10) Antacid, laxative, anti-diarrhea medication.
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES- Items might include the following: 1) Paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils; 2) Battery operated radio and extra batteries; 3) Flashlight and extra batteries; 4) Non-electric can opener and utility knive; 5) Fire extinguisher (ABC type); 6) Matches in waterproof container; 7) Toilet paper and household chlorine bleach; 8) Feminine supplies; 9) A shut-off wrench to turn off household water and gas; 10) Plastic garbage bags and ties (for sanitary uses).
CLOTHING AND BEDDING- Assemble a kit that might include:1) Rain gear and sturdy shoes; 2) Sleeping bags or blankets; 3) Hats and Gloves; 4) Thermal underwear.
SPECIAL ITEMS- This might include baby supplies, medication, important family records, and entertainment material (books and games)