72 Hour Emergency Survival Kits
During an emergency or disaster is not an appropriate time to worry about having adequate water, batteries or food. While it is not advisable to maintain a supply of perishable items, there are many items that we can have on hand to be prepared in the event of an emergency.
Any large plastic container (such as the rubbermaid or similar boxes with lids available at any department store) is an excellent way to store our emergency survival kits. This type of container allows for an air tight seal keeping moisture and critters away from our supplies.
While individual family needs vary, a standard list of supplies should be gathered and stored within this container. These include:
- flashlight and batteries
- radio and batteries
- spare batteries for radio and flashlight
- first aid kit
- candles and matches/lighter
- extra car keys and small amount of cash
- copies of important papers (drivers licenses, birth certificates etc.)
toilet paper- blankets
- personal hygiene products if required
- diapers etc. for infants
- over the counter medication (Aspirin, Tylenol, anti diarrhea medication etc.)
- prescription medication if possible and photocopies of your prescriptions
- sufficient water and food, usually for a 3 day period is recommended
- count on approximately 4 litres of water per person per day
- food could consist of canned stews, beans, pasta, meat, vegetables and fruit
- crackers and biscuits
- honey, peanut butter, syrup, jam, sugar, instant coffee and tea
- knives, forks, spoons
- disposable cups and plates
- manual can opener, bottle opener
- fuel stove and fuel (never use a charcoal or gas barbeque in the house)
- if you have pets or animals, please remember to plan for their needs as well!
All food and water should be replaced yearly. Go through your emergency kit twice a year and be mindful of expiry dates on all items.
