How to Prepare Disaster Emergency Supplies

Have your family prepared for an emergency that may last for a few days or up to 2 weeks. The electricity may go out due to a weather event (snow storm, flood, tornado, hurricane, earthquake), or a health emergency such as pandemic flu may affect your community. As the Boy and Girl Scouts motto says: Be Prepared!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Extra supply of prescription drugs
• Extra medical devices and supplies
• Pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines
• Read-to-eat canned meats, fish, fruits, vegetables and soups
• Protein or fruit bars
• Dry cereal or granola
• Dried fruits such as raisins, dates, apricots and plums
• Bottled water
• Canned juices
• Canned or jarred baby food and formula
• Pet food
• Soap and water or alcohol-based hand wash
• Vitamins
• Batteries
• Flashlight
• Candles and matches
• Portable radio
• Garbage bags
• Tissues, toilet paper, diapers, tampons
• Manual can opener

1. Assemble the supplies in a box or bag in a convenient location in your home. Notify all family members of its location.
2. Keep a 2-week supply of items.
3. Keep your supply up to date (remove outdated items).
4. Prepare a similar supply for relatives or neighbors living alone.