As per the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (Ready.gov), every house should be prepared for disasters and sudden evacuations. You can handle this by creating a basic disaster kit with appropriate essentials to last at least three days. A 72-hour kit should have the basics like food, water, medicine, and other necessities. Though several prepackaged emergency kits available in stores, they are pricey and frequently don’t have essentials that meet all of the needs of your family. The best and cheapest alternative is to make a 72-hour kit for you and your family or friends.
And how are you going to make an emergency kit? There are guidelines on how to set up a simple emergency preparedness kit on Ready.gov. Consider this list as the primary basis for your family’s 72-hour kit. For instance, you’ll need a way to store and carry your items carefully and to keep the elements out. There are a few options to use such as a duffel bag, backpacks, or plastic bins. At that point, you’ll need to make sure that all of the items in your kit are placed in airtight plastic bags to stay them safe and dry.
If you already have a safe method to store and carry your emergency kit, you can add basic items like water and food. Ready.gov has the entire list you can download and print. But a good rule of thumb is to have at least one gallon of water per person per day in your kit, plus a three-day supply of non-perishable food items for each person. If you want to use canned goods in your kit, keep in mind that you need to add a manual can opener. Other essential survival supplies, such as flashlights, extra batteries, matches, or a lighter, a first aid kit, moist towelettes, and garbage bags, should also be included in your kit. And any prescription medications or medical supplies your family might need. If you have extra space, consider bringing one change of clothes and shoes for every individual and a blanket or sleeping bag.
Once you have the basics, you can start adding items that are unique to your family’s circumstances. For instance, if you have infants or pets in your family, keep in mind that you must have baby supplies and pet food added to your kit. It may also be important to add things like feminine hygiene products, contact lens solution, or over-the-counter medications that are used regularly. Lastly, you might consider adding copies of important family documents, identification records, and cash or traveler’s checks to your emergency kit. Just don’t forget that cash and passports, together with any relevant documents, are placed in waterproof storage.
An important part of preparing a 72-hour kit for your family is maintaining it from year to year. It is necessary to monitor and replace expired food products as needed, and update your kit as your family’s needs change. Finally, you’ll have to determine where to store your kit. It is a smart idea to find a safe and accessible location if something happens and you need to leave right away. Make sure that every person in the family knows where the kit is. You might also start having a smaller emergency kit for your car if something happens while you are away from home.