How to Assemble Emergency Kits

Don't wait for an emergency to start scrambling for vital supplies--get ready now. Most necessary equipment is inexpensive and readily available. You'll need kits in the event of an earthquake, power outage, snowstorm, flood or hurricane. For long car trips, you need a mobile kit. Keep everything in water- and airtight containers.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Prepare a mobile kit. This should be easily carried, containing enough water to last three days (less than you would normally drink). Band-aids, simple medications and ointments, and a compass and map should be included, as well. Non-perishable nuts or other small feed might be important. A flashlight and spare batteries are a safe choice.
2. Prepare a home kit. These kits are much larger (or can be, anyway) than mobile kits. It's contents are bulky and may not be limited to "emergency only" items, often containing books and toys. The contents are limited only by the amount of space available to store it. Food, water and a light source, such as a flashlight, are essential. A generator might also be included if other items are dependent upon it.
3. Prepare a first aid kit. This should include medications, adhesive bandages, gauze, disinfectants, and items such as matches and needle and thread.

Tips & Warnings

• Parents need to be careful not to scare their kids, but should also avoid turning drills into a game. Be serious, direct and simple when instructing your children.
• Search online for "emergency resources" to find resources in your community.
• Check out Ready.gov for a complete list of what to include in your first aid kit.