All Americans should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs. Following is a listing of some basic items that every emergency supply kit should include. However, it is important that individuals review this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of their family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will meet these needs.

Individuals should also consider having at least two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time.

Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit now before an emergency hits. Here are a few items you may wish to include:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
  
• First aid kit, and first aid manual
• Battery-powered radio or television
  
• Spare batteries
  
• Candles and matches or lighters (store matches and lighters in waterproof container)
  
• Drinking/cooking water--Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Canned goods such as soups and a manual can opener
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
• Disposable plates, cup, utensils, and paper towels.
• Portable heater (oil or LP gas)
  
• Camping equipment such as sleeping bags, camp stoves, portable lamps or lanterns
  
• Manufacturer's instructions on how to open power-operated doors during a power failure
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
• Local maps

Additional items to consider adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

• Updated telephone number list of emergency contacts.
• Prescription medications and glasses.
• Infant formula and diapers.
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
• Cash or traveler’s checks and change Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
• Fire Extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels Paper and pencil Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.
• Basic Tool Kit including flashlights
• Personal hygiene items, diapers, and health needs
• Pet Items
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate. Be sure to include heavy duty shoes, rain and cold weather gear.
• Paper and Pencil
• Bedding or Sleep Bags
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities
• Child Emergency Kit

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  Remember every emergency supply kit is unique to you and your family and should be created with your special needs in mind. To prepare, plan, and stay informed, visit www.ready.gov