The first 72 hours after a major emergency or disaster are critical. Electricity, gas, water, and telephones may not be working. In addition, public safety services will be busy handling serious crises. You should be prepared to be self-sufficient and able to live without running water, electricity, gas, and telephones for at least three days following any major emergency. To do this, keep the following items on hand and in a central location:
Essentials:
Water: one gallon per person per day (1 week's supply preferred)
Water purification kit
First Aid Kit (stocked)
First Aid Book
Food
Non-Electric Can Opener
Blankets or Sleeping Bags
Portable Radio & Flashlights with spare batteries
Essential Medications
Extra pair of Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses
Extra set of house & auto keys
Fire Extinguisher (A-B-C Type)
Food, Water, and restraint for pets
Cash & Change
Baby Supplies
Sanitation Supplies:
Large Plastic Bags for waste or storage
Large Plastic Garbage Cans
Bar Soap & Liquid Detergent
Shampoo
Toothpaste & Toothbrushes
Feminine Hygiene Supplies
Toilet Paper, Paper Towel & Tissue
Household Bleach
Safety & Comfort:
Sturdy Shoes or Boots
Heavy Gloves for cleaning debris
Light Sticks
A Change of Clothes
Knife or Razor Blade
Garden Hose for siphoning or firefighting
Tent
Tarps
Rain Poncho
Paper, Pens, & Stamps
Cooking:
Plastic Knives, Forks, and Spoons
Paper Plates & Cups
Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil
Camping Stove for outdoor cooking
Tools & Supplies:
Axe, Shovel, and Broom
Adjustable wrench for turning off gas
Tool Kit: Screwdriver, Pliers, and Hammer
Coil of Rope
Tape, Staple Gun, and Sheeting for Windows
Bicycle
City Map or Atlas
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