Basic Disaster Supplies

Everyone should have basic supplies on hand to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs. Shown in the tabs are some basic items that every emergency supply kit should include. It is important to consider the unique needs of your family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will meet these needs. One should also consider having at least two emergency supply kits; one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time.

The Hurricane Shopping Guide is a downloadable eight week shopping guide to create your own disaster kit, courtesy of Santa Rosa County Emergency Management. Another good source is the Emergency Supply Checklist found in the downloadable Santa Rosa Emergency Management Disaster Guide.

Choose one of the tabs below to see what else should be in your emergency kit.

Bottled Water

Water should be stored in plastic containers. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break. Store one gallon of water per person per day.

It is also a good idea to fill bathtubs and sinks with water for sanitation use. Water purification agents such as bleach should also be kept on hand.

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Non-Perishable Food

Store at least a three day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, cooking or preparation.

If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno. But remember to use all flames OUTDOORS.

First Aid

It is a good idea to have two first aid kits. One for your home and the other for your car. Your kit should include things like bandages, scissors, tweezers, soap, latex gloves, lubricant, assorted size safety pins and any non-prescription drugs deemed necessary.

Tools & Other Supplies

You should have a basic tool kit with items you feel are necessary to make temporary repairs after a storm.

Some other items to consider are plastic sheeting, paper plates, plastic utensils, flashlights (with working batteries), and a battery-powered radio. You should also have spare batteries of the proper size available for all flashlights, radios, etc.

Other items to consider are a non-electric can opener, fire extinguisher, tent, matches, aluminum foil, plastic storage containers, garbage bags, a small shovel, incect repellent, and other assorted personal hygiene items.

Clothing & Bedding

Clothing and bedding items should be protected by placing them in waterproof or water-resistant boxes, bags, or other suitable containers. Be sure to include at least one change of clothing and footwear per person.

Some other items to consider are work boots and gloves, rain gear (jacket, umbrella, etc.), blankets or sleeping bags, towels, hat, and sunglasses.

Special Items

Keep all-important family documents safe and in a waterproof container. Items for consideration to keep safe are wills, insurance policies, bank account numbers, credit cards, a phone book, and a household inventory complete with serial numbers and pictures or video. All of these might come in very handy after the storm.

Don't forget family members with special needs. For children you should have plenty of necessary baby formula, diapers, bottles and medications. Adults with medications such as insulin or other prescription drugs should have their prescriptions filled before the storm. Don't forget any denture needs and eyeglasses or contacts. You should also have some form of entertainment for everyone including books or puzzles/games for both kids and adults.