Step Five: Build a Kit

You should plan to have enough supplies to sustain you for at least three days. Store them in an easy to carry container such as a backpack or duffel bag.

Your kit should contain:

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• A portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries.
• Cash and Coins in a waterproof container
• Photocopies of personal identification and other important family documents (birth certificate, drivers license, will or trust, social security card, immigration documentation)
• A supply of prescription medications in a waterproof container. Keep copies of the paper prescriptions as well.
• Store glasses or contact lenses with solution in a waterproof container
• An extra set of keys for your home
• One change of clothing for each person in the household
• Sanitary supplies such as soap, toilet paper, diapers and other materials if appropriate
• A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day)
• A three-day supply for non-perishable food. Choose foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking.
• A first aid kit

Continue to Step Six: Learn Lifesaving Skills