You should have enough supplies on hand to last for 5 to 7 days.
Water
- Drinking Water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
- Tincture of Iodine or Water Purification Tablets
- Canned or Bottled Beverages
Non Perishable Food
- Canned Meats and Fish (tuna, ham,chicken, spam, sardines, etc.)
- Canned Fruits and Vegetables
- Canned Soups
- Dried Fruits and Vegetables
- Cereal
- Crackers and Cookies
- Coffee and Tea
- Peanut Butter and Jelly
- Pudding
- Prepared Foods (canned spaghetti, soup stew, chili, etc.)
- Powdered Milk, Evaporated Milk, or Parmalat Milk
Baby and Child Needs
- Baby Food and/or Formula
- Diapers and Wipes
Pet Needs
- Pet Food
- Medications and Supplies
- Carrier Cage
Items for Repair Work -- These items may be in short supply after a storm
- Plastic Sheeting
- Duct or Masking Tape
- Nails
- Rope
- Lumber
- Tools
Cooking and Food Preparation
- Manual Can Opener
- Ice Chest and Ice
- Sterno
- Propane Gas (for grills)
- Charcoal and Lighter Fluid
- Disposable Plates, Glasses and Utensils
Medical, Hygiene, and Protection
- Prescribed Medicine (2 week supply)
- First Aid Kit
- Toilet Paper
- Soap and Detergent
- Disinfectant
- Bleach for Sterilization (unscented with Hypochlorite, the only active ingredient)
- Plastic Garbage Bags
- Insect Repellent
- Sunscreen
- Rain Gear
Other Essentials
- Cash (ATM’s may not work after the storm)
- Fire Extinguisher
- Cellular Phone
- Battery-Operated TV/Radio and Clock
- Spare Batteries
- Flashlights
- Waterproof Matches
Fuel
- Fuel for Generators and Cars
- Approved Fuel Containers
It is also wise to have books, magazines, games, and toys on hand to help pass the time.