Build Your Emergency Supply Kit
September 1, 2019
Assemble everything you need for a robust emergency kit by buying or collecting a few items each week over the course of three months. Here is the third of three shopping lists to help you gather supplies. See last month’s issue for the second list.
WEEK 9: Grocery Store
- 1 large can juice
- 2 boxes energy bars/snacks
- Plastic food bags and aluminum foil
- 3 rolls paper towels
- Paper plates, cups and utensils
- BONUS: Backup/copy important computer files, photographs, documents, etc. Send a copy to an out-of-state family member or friend.
WEEK 10: First Aid
- Diarrhea medicine, allergy medications
- Vitamins
- Latex gloves
- Rubbing alcohol
- BONUS: Speak to neighbors about who may need help during an emergency, such as the elderly or disabled. Discuss who can help your children if an emergency occurs when you are not home.
- BONUS: Include extra clothes in your supply kit.
WEEK 11: Hardware and Supplies
- Fire extinguisher
- Pliers and work gloves
- Extra batteries for flashlight and radio
- Extra nails and screws
- Emergency blankets and rain protection
- BONUS: Find out about your workplace’s emergency preparedness plan
- BONUS: Include cash in the kit as you are able
WEEK 12: Grocery Store
- Dry cereal and crackers
- Quick snacks
- Assorted plastic storage containers with lids
- Instant coffee, tea, drinks, etc.
- BONUS: Have an earthquake or severe weather drill at home.
- BONUS: Replace your emergency supply of water every six months.
- BONUS: Buy food you enjoy. This will make it easy to rotate your supplies and keep them fresh. Find occasions to swap out your emergency food supplies such as a camping trip or food donations.
- BONUS: Mark your food with the purchase date—especially for perishable items. Take note of expiration dates of food.
