FEMA states, “All Americans should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs.” FEMA also suggest that, “Individuals should review this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of their family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will meet these needs.”
Click here to see the list presented by FEMA.
Additional items that may be handy in the event of an emergency are a pocket knife, strong rope able to support your body weight, and possibly a tent, one that can be carried or categorized as a 'backpacking' tent. Several different common ways to store your Emergency Kit are in a 5 gallon bucket with a lid that can be doubled as a seat, a storage container, or a backpack that will fit the items suggested and is easy to carry. You may also consider having two Emergency Kits, one for your home and another for your place of business or vehicle.
Your Emergency Kits should be easily accessible but also kept at room temperature to help preserve your food. The ideal location to store your Emergency Kit would be in a room your family identifies as the safe room or a tornado room in your home.
A very important aspect of your Emergency Kit is the food you include in your kit. You should experiment with different types of ready-to-eat dried foods, Meals Ready to Eat (MRE), emergency food bars, and other ready-to-eat canned foods before placing them in your kit. You should also consider the shelf life and weight of all the different options.
Your Emergency Kit should be checked twice a year, making sure your food hasn't expired and rotating your water. Also take advantage of this opportunity to rotate your clothes in your kit to match the coming seasons.
The time spent preparing for an emergency situation is well worth the benefits you gain from having Emergency Kits for your family. You may never need your kit, but it never hurts to prepare.
