This kit is meant to provide for the basic needs of an individual or family for up to 72 hours in the event of an emergency or disaster. Disaster relief may not be available for at least 72 hours after the disaster. This household kit should include the following:
FOOD
WATER
FIRST AID SUPPLIES
PET SUPPLIES
SPECIAL ITEMS
FOOD – Store at least a three day supply of non-perishable food which may include the following:
- Ready-to-eat canned meat and fruits
- Canned juices, milk, soups and vegetables
- High energy foods such as peanut butter, trail mix, granola bars and crackers
- Foods for infants, elderly or other people on special diets
- Stress food such as cookies, hard candy and sweetened cereals
- Vitamins and staples (sugar, pepper, salt)
WATER – Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Keep at least a three day supply of water for each household member. This is one gallon per person; two quarts for drinking and two quarts for food preparation and sanitation.
FIRST AID SUPPLIES – Assemble (or purchase) a kit for your home and automobile. A first aid kit should include the following:
- Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
- Two and four inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 each)
- Hypoallergenic adhesive tape
- Scissors, tweezers, needles, safety pins and thermometer
- Antiseptic, cleaning agent or soap
- Latex gloves (2 pair)
- Sunscreen and a tube of petroleum jelly
- Syrup of Ipecac (use to induce vomiting if advised by the Poison Control Center)
- Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
- Antacid, laxative, anti-diarrhea medication
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES – Items may include the following:
- Paper cups, plates and plastic utensils
- Battery operated radio and extra batteries
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Non-electric can opener and utility knife
- Fire extinguisher (ABC type)
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Toilet paper and household chlorine bleach
- Feminine supplies
- A shut-off wrench to turn off household water and gas
- Plastic garbage bags and ties for sanitary uses
CLOTHING AND BEDDING – Assemble a kit that may include:
- Rain gear and sturdy shoes
- Sleeping bags or blankets
- Hats and gloves
- Thermal underwear
PET SUPPLIES –Farm animals will need adequate shelter and at least a three day supply of food and water. You may bring domesticated animals (pets – dogs and cats) to the shelter where a York County Animal Control Officer will assist you in the sheltering of your pet. Limited capabilities may be available at the shelter. If possible bring pet carrier, leash, medications, food and water. Also know the York County Animal Shelter may rely on you to assist with the care of your pet during their shelter stay.
SPECIAL ITEMS – This may include the following:
- Supplies
- Medication – prescription and non-prescription
- Important family records
- Entertainment material (books and games)
- Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to plan in advance: how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations. It may be best to choose a contact person outside of the disaster area to let them know you are okay and for them to relay that information onto other family members.
REMEMBER – Landline phone service and cellular service may be limited and/or non-existent! Do not depend solely on telephone service after a disaster.