Step 1: Create a Kit
What would you do if the power and heat went out? Is it cold where you live? You should pack one change of warm clothing and shoes for everyone, including:
- A hat and gloves
- A jacket or coat
- Long pants
- A long sleeve shirt
- A sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Sturdy shoes
Source
These items should be included in a basic emergency supply kit:
- Any prescription medications that your family may need
- Battery-powered radio
- Can opener
- Dust mask or cotton t-shirt, to help filter the air
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Personal items like moist towelettes, toilet paper, and garbage bags
- Water, one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation
- Waterproof container for important papers
- Whistle to signal for help
Source
- Iowa Department of Public Health
What would you want to have with you if you had to leave home during a disaster? View some suggestions for fun activities to pack in your backpack:
- Board games
- Crayons, pencils or pens and paper
- A deck of cards
- One of your favorite books, toys, and/or stuffed animals
- A puzzle
- Scissors and glue
Source
- Ready.gov
Here are some other items you might want to include. Some of these items can be dangerous, so please have a grown-up to collect these supplies with you.
- Cash or traveler's checks, change
- Compass
- Fire extinguisher
- First-aid book
- Household chlorine bleach
- Medicine dropper
- Paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils
- Paper towels
- Paper, pencil
- Personal hygiene items including feminine supplies
- Rain gear
- Tent or plastic sheeting and duct tape to build a shelter
- A waterproof container for important family documents
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Source
- Ready.gov
- Check the kits once in a while to make sure food and water are fresh and medicines are up-to-date
- Put your kit somewhere where everyone can find it
- Remember to take your emergency supply kit with you during a disaster
Source
- Iowa Department of Public Health