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Every individual needs to be prepared to exist for the first 72 hours after a disaster. It could take up to three days for relief workers and necessary supplies to reach some areas. With a well planned 72 Hour Kit, your time after a disaster can be changed from a miserable experience to one that is more pleasant. Plan your kit well, and inventory it's contents every six months to change the types of clothing and items that may change with the seasons.
- 72 Hour Supply of Water and Food
- 3 - 5 gallons of stored water for sanitation and drinking. Per individual
- Method of water purification
- Food - easy to prepare, 3 days worth Per individual
- Warmth and Shelter
- Wind proof/waterproof matches
- Tent/shelter
- Wool-blend blanket or
- Sleeping bag
- Emergency reflective blanket
- Lightweight stove and fuel
- Hand and body warm packs
- Poncho
- Second method to start a fire
- Light Sources
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Candles
- Light Stick
- Tools
- Pocket knife
- Shovel
- Hatchet or Axe
- Sewing Kit
- 50-foot nylon rope
- First Aid Kit and Supplies
- Personal meditations and supplies
- Plain Bleach - water and other disinfectant
- Personal Comfort Kit (include soap, toothbrush, comb, tissue, sanitary items, razor), and other needed items Per individual
- Extra Clothing
- A complete outfit of appropriate clothing. Include extra socks, underwear, hat, sturdy shoes, and gloves. One set per individual.
- Money
- At least $20 in your kit. Include change for pay phones.
- Important Papers
- Copies of documents important to your family (such as birth certificates, wills, insurance forms)
- Phone numbers you might need
- Credit card information
- Stress Relievers
- Books
- Hard Candy
- Small toys, paper and pen, favorite security items for children
- Communications
- Radio with batteries or other power source
- Whistle with neck cord
- Additional Items
- Mess kits and cooking utensils
- Sun Block
- Insect Repellent
- Extra Food
- Camp Stove
- Portable Container
- Durable water resistant duffel bag, frame pack or day pack.
- Copy of your plan, kit inventory with re-check date
- Your kit must be portable. Select a suitable container and keep it near an exit of your home. Do not overload the kit, as you may have to carry it for long distances to reach shelter or safety.
- Each family member should have their own kit with food, water and clothing. Distribute heavy items between kits.
- Wrap extra clothing, matches, personal documents and other easily potential smoke or water damaged items in plastic to protect them. You can use the plastic later for many uses.
- Keep your light source on top of the kit, so you can find it easily in the dark.
- Personalize your kit. Make sure the needs of your family have been met.
- Inspect you kit at least twice a year, rotating the food and water supplies. Adjust the clothing to meet seasonal needs. Check expiration dates on batteries, light sticks, warm packs, food and water.
- Consider the needs of elderly persons and those with special needs. Make sure appropriate supplies are packed for babies (diapers, wash cloth, ointment, etc.)
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