Things You'll Need:
- Large duffel bag, trunk or storage container
- Canned food or dry goods
- Water
- First aid kit with any prescription medication
- Portable radio
- Candles or flashlight
- Matches and extra batteries
- Small camp stove with fuel
- Games, cards, books and toys
- Whistle
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Step 1
Designate a large duffel bag, trunk or storage container for the kit. The container should be large enough to hold all of the supplies.
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Step 2
Gather canned food or dry goods such as soups, beans, vegetables, crackers, peanut butter and other food that lasts without refrigeration. Make sure you have enough food to sustain your entire family for at least three days.
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Step 3
Put enough bottled water in the kit to last three days. Each member of your family needs to drink at least 2 liters of water each day. Have extra water for cleaning and hygiene.
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Step 4
Purchase a first aid kit with bandages, burn cream, pain relievers, sting treatment, rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide. Include a week's worth of any required prescription medications. Purchase any needed nebulizer or portable oxygen tanks from a medical supply store.
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Step 5
Include a portable radio in the emergency survival kit to get updates and crucial information during the emergency.
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Step 6
Place candles and flashlights in the kit. Include dry matches or a lighter and extra batteries.
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Step 7
Buy a small gas camp stove and fuel for the stove. Find these at any sporting goods store. Keep three full fuel canisters in the kit at all times.
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Step 8
Include games, cards, books and toys. Make them age-appropriate for those in your family. Remember to get items that are lightweight in case you have to move from your location.
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Step 9
Pack any tools, pocketknives or utensils that might be needed.
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Step 10
Purchase a small whistle for the kit. Whistles are used to attract attention if you need to evacuate.
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Step 11
Place the kit in the house and show everyone in the family where it is. Show them what is inside the kit and explain its contents are only to be used an emergency.
Comments
tov051920091 said
on 5/19/2009 Good information
ruf1950 said
on 5/19/2009 Thanks for a great article on How to Make an Emergency Survival Kit; very helpful. 5***** and a recommend.
vikki9 said
on 5/19/2009 Consider noting your calendar a few months out to review and replace the contents of your kit as necessary. Thank you.
mrymerry said
on 5/19/2009 You may want to include copies of vital records, insurance cards
kohuether said
on 5/19/2009 This is good! My parents went without power for a weekend after some bad ice storms. I know for me, when the power goes out, I'm ALWAYS fumbling for the flashlight because it's never in the same spot... having a kit ready can give you some piece of mind for sure.