Government and relief agencies estimate that after a major disaster, it could take up to three days for relief workers to reach some areas. In such a case, your 72 Hour Kit could mean the difference between life and death. In other disasters affecting your family, a 72 Hour Kit means the difference between having a miserable experience or one that’s like a pleasant family camp out.
The Web site, www.beprepared.com, recommends the following 72 Hour Kit Checklist:
3-5 gallons of water stored for sanitation and drinking
Method of water purification
72 Hour Supply of Food and Water
Warmth and Shelter
Windproof/waterproof matches
Second method to start a fire
Tent/shelter
Wool-blend blanket or sleeping bag
Emergency reflective blanket
Lightweight stove and fuel
Hand and body warm packs
Poncho
Light Sources
Flashlight with batteries
Candle
Light stick
Tools
Pocket knife
Shovel
Hatchet or Axe
Sewing kit
50-foot nylon rope
First aid kit and supplies
Burn gel and dressings
Bottle of potassium iodide tablets
Communications
Radio with batteries or radio with alternate power sources
Whistle with neck cord
Personal Sanitation
Personal comfort kit (include soap, toothbrush and gel, comb, tissue, sanitary napkins, razor), and other needed items
Extra Clothing
A complete outfit of appropriate clothing for each family member. Include extra socks, underwear, hat, sturdy shoes, and gloves
Money — At least $20 in your kit. Be sure to include quarters for phone calls
Important Papers
Copies of documents important to your family (such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, wills, insurance forms), phone numbers you might need, credit card information
Stress Relievers
Games, books, hard candy, inspirational reading. For children: small toys, paper and pen, favorite security items
Additional Items
Extra food
Camp stove
Mess kits and other cooking equipment
Sun block
Insect repellent
Portable toilet
Snake bite kit
Special medication or other needs
Portable Container
Durable water resistant duffel bag, frame pack or day pack
1. Your kit should be in a portable container located near an exit of your house. This is so you can grab it on your way out of the house in a serious emergency. Do not overload your kit—you may have to carry it long distances to reach safety or shelter.
2. Each family member should have their own kit with food, clothing and water. Distribute heavy items between kits.
3. Enclose the extra clothing, matches, personal documents, and other items damageable by smoke or water in plastic to protect them. If it’s raining when you have to evacuate, you will appreciate the dry clothes.
4. Keep a light source in the top of your kit, so you can find it quickly in the dark.
5. Personalize your kit. Make sure you fill the needs of each family member.
6. Inspect your kit at least twice a year. Rotate food and water. Check children’s clothing for proper fit. Adjust clothing for winter or summer needs. Check expiration dates on batteries, light sticks, warm packs, food and water.
7. Consider the needs of elderly people as well as those with handicaps or other special needs. For example: for babies, store diapers, washcloth, ointment, bottles and pacifiers, and other special supplies.
