Have a two-week supply of each item for every person in your home. Store the items in a large container(s).
WATER
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- 14 gallons of water per person (1 gallon per day, per person)
- Store water in clean containers (bottles, pots, bathtubs and sinks) because the water supply may become contaminated
- Prepare to have extra water for hygiene and for washing dishes
FOOD
Purchase foods that require no refrigeration and little preparation, such as:
- Ready-to-eat canned food with non-electric can opener
- Canned juices, canned milk, soup (if powdered, store extra water)
- Peanut butter, crackers
- Snacks: cookies, cereals, etc.
- Soft drinks, instant coffee, tea
- Lots of ice (you can freeze your water supply)
FOR BABY
- Formula, bottles, powdered milk, jarred baby foods
- Diapers, moist towelettes and special medications
PETS
- Newspapers or cat litter
- Moist canned foods (to preserve water)
- Plastic sheets to cover floor of pet's room
MEDICINE
- First aid kit
- Rubbing alcohol
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Aspirin, non-aspirin pain reliever, antacid
- Adhesive bandages
- Bug repellent
- Burn cream
- Two-week supply of prescription medication (especially for heart problems and diabetes)
- Ask your physician how to store prescription medication
PERSONAL ITEMS
- Toilet paper, towels, soap, shampoo
- Personal and feminine hygiene products
- Denture needs, contact lenses and an extra pair of eyeglasses
- Sun protection, insect repellent
OTHER SUPPLIES
- Battery-operated radio
- Flashlights (1 per person) and candles
- Non-electric can opener
- Extra batteries (seven sets of batteries for radio, flashlights)
- Charcoal, waterproof matches, extra propane gas for grills (Use grills outside only!)
- ABC-rated fire extinguisher in a small canister
- Portable cooler to hold food, beverages
- Plenty of absorbent towels, plastic trash bags
- Wind-up or battery-operated clock
- Tarp or sheet plastic, duct tape, hammer and nails for temporary roof repairs
- Cleaning supplies such as chlorine bleach
- Aluminum foil, paper napkins and plates, plastic cups
- Can of spray paint (can be used to identify your home by insurance adjusters in case it's damaged)
- At least one change of clothing per person, sturdy shoes, hat and work gloves
- Pillows and blankets or sleeping bags
- Games, cards, books and toys for children
- Fire or lock box to store important documentation and computer files
- Heavy rain slickers for each family member