Disaster Supply List for the Whole Family

Most heads of families who plan in advance for emergencies or disasters need a disaster supply list. These emergencies may include events other than natural disasters. For example: college, marriages, deaths of family members, etc. But planning for an emergency and having an disaster supply list will also be prudent when making plans for your family’s future. This type of planning doesn’t necessarily mean that you are being pessimistic about the future or that you have a doomsday attitude. It means only that in the event natural disaster or any kind of emergency – your family will be prepared and will not have to suffer unnecessarily because you have not provided them the necessary items and skills to survive in emergency circumstances. The information that follows will provide you with guidelines so that you and your family will be self-sufficient during an emergency situation.

Instruction and Practice

Whether it’s to protect your family from the hazards of a home fire, a tornado, or any other emergency event; it is important that you instruct your family at regular intervals on what they are to do in the event of any of these types of emergencies occur. Practicing with your family the proper way to exit your home in case of a fire, earthquake, or other natural disastaer will better insure their being prepared. Practice is a more sure way to give your family an advantage in the event of disaster.

Prepared Lists

Gas lines need to be turned off, another precaution your family should learn to take. This should be included on any plan made by your family members. This item should be included on your written list of preparations you should take in case of an emergency. This list should also include instructions as to family members will be able to find cash or important family documents.

Emergency Supplies

Usually, it will take three days or more after a disaster for emergency relief workers to come to the assistance of those in need of help. Therefore, it would be prudent to have emergency supplies prepared for each member of your family that will last for at least three days. There are several commercial emergency kits available, but regardless of whether you use commercially prepared kits or ones you have assembled yourself, they should contain some of the following.

• One gallon of water per person per day (for up to three days). Remember, this water will need to be used for both drinking and for sanitation purposes.
• Three day supply of food (non perishable). A can opener should be included if your food is in cans.
• First aid kit
• Battery powered radio that will give you weather related conditions or other important news.
• Supply of garbage bags and other sanitary items (hand towelettes, women’s sanitary products, etc.).
• Flashlight with additional batteries (these should be checked often to ensure they are charged and working)
• Prescription medications
• Pliers or wrench to turn off utilities
• Diapers and wipes for baby
• Food and water for your pet
• Fuel for your car or truck
• Cash
• Sleeping bags for each family member
• Change of clothing for each family member