Contents for a Disaster Kit

Every household should have a Disaster Supply Kit at the ready. The kit will be your lifeline for you and your family during a disaster. In a hurricane or earthquake it is common for power to go out and the water supply may become contaminated. In a major winter storm or flood, you may not be able to leave your house for some days and in times like this; you will need to rely on your own resources. Your disaster supply kit will make it easier. Remember, your family may never need to use your disaster supply kit, but preparing ahead of time is always best. Keep your kit in a plastic container or closed cupboard where it will be easy to locate.http://www.fema.gov/kids/dzplan.htm.

Items you will need for your Survival Kit
Experts suggest gathering stores of food and water before the hurricane season begins. This way you will not be in the position of waiting in long line ups at stores and suppliers.

These lists will assist you in gathering your emergency supplies.

Essentials

Drinking water in clean containers: 1 gallon per person per person.
Food (canned and dried goods are ideal), $10 per person per day.
Fire extinguisher, $10.
Cash or travelers checks
Soap and plastic container, $2.
Extra prescription medicine for a few days. First-aid kit: aspirin, bandages, gauze, petroleum jelly, antiseptic spray, hydrogen peroxide, antacids, thermometer, rubbing alcohol, $28.
Hand operated can opener, $3.
Hand tools: axe or hatchet, sharp knife, nails, pliers, handsaw, screwdrivers, $40.
Have on hand at least one flashlight per person with spare batteries, $5 per person.
Extra batteries
Battery powered electric drill with screwdriver bits to install bolts for window coverings. $40.
Unscented household bleach to purify water, 8 drops per gallon of water, $1.
Battery-operated radio, with weather band, $20.
Waterproof wooden matches about $1.50 for four small boxes.
Disposable eating utensils and plates and glasses or mugs, $5.
Toilet tissue, $1.
Bug spray, $5.

Practical

Large (gallon) freezer bags to fill with water for making, $4.
A camping stove or gas grill or Sterno stove with extra fuel, $30. (Never operate gas grills indoors.)
Lantern with extra fuel, $23.
Heavy duty work gloves, $4 per pair
Travel sized Needle and thread kit, $2.
Whistle or air horn, $6.
Snake-bite kit, $12.
Large trash bags, $8.
Rope or heavy cord, 100 feet, $13.
Tarpaulin, canvas or material that can be used to make a temporary roof repair, $13.

Costly but worth It

Chain saw and extra fuel, $135.
Backup generator, $400