One of the most important things we can do for the health and safety of our families is create and maintain an emergency and disaster preparedness kit. These kits can be purchased online or in local stores – but you can also put them together on your own and save money in the process!
Before putting a kits together, consider where you’ll store it all. Most people use waterproof 5-gallon buckets which can be sealed and stored in closets or basements spaces. You may also want to consider using a backpack since this can be easy to grab-and-go when needed, such as medications and immediate use items. Personally, we feel that having a kit in a bucket and a kit in a bag will make sure that your family is ready for anything that may happen.
Emergency – Allergy Items
Short Cut: Purchase an emergency kit like this Emergency Kit.
ª Ziplock Bags of various sizes
ª Permanent Markers
ª Medications – Plus handwritten instructions in a ziplock bag & Dosage Cup or Dispensers
ª Benedryl
ª Inhaler/Breathing Apparatus
ª Epi-Pens with photos adhered to them + Instructions in a ziplock bag
ª Tylenol / Ibprofen
ª Medicated Creams/Lotions
ª Non Medicated Creams/Lotions
ª Allergy Appropriate foods and snacks – Enough for a few days to weeks (depending on the severity and type of allergies)
In addition to the list above, be aware of when the prescription drugs expire. Keep track of which medications you have stored in your emergency disaster kit and make sure to exchange them well before they expire. Prescription medications as well as important over the counter medications are both great items to have on hand.
Emergency – Basic Items
Short Cut: Purchase an emergency kit like this Emergency Kit.
It’s a good idea to watch for sales, bulk discounts, and online specials for these items since you can collect them over time and replace them as needed.
ª Water. One gallon per person, per day. Prepare for three days
ª LifeStraw
ª Food + Can Opener. You can find many 72 hour food kits from Costco, Sam’s Club, and other warehouse clubs. This is usually the best way to get preserved food that you can rely on for years to come. Don’t forget about pet food, as well!
ª Hand crank / Solar Powered radio
ª Hand Crank Flashlights
ª First aid kit
ª A whistle
ª garbage bags
ª Hygiene items
ª Basic tools
ª Maps
ª Extra cell phone chargers
ª Extra clothes
ª Copies of important documents, papers, or files in a ziplock bag
ª Basic camping gear
ª Flares
As you shop for items to add to your kit, try to choose the brands and products that your family already uses. Sometimes something as simple as a familiar taste or smell can help soothe nerves and calm stress.
Try to create one kit in a waterproof 5-gallon bucket and one in an easy to carry backpack so that you’ll be prepared whether you need to stay or go! Don’t forget about your pets! Emergency Preparedness Kit for pets
Staying prepared allows your family to rest assured that no matter what challenges life may bring, you have everything you need to stay safe, protected, and in control.
What’s in your kit? Share below.