FAMILY DISASTER SUPPLY KIT

There are six basics that you should stock for your disaster supply kit; water, food, clothing and bedding, first aid supplies, tools and emergency supplies and special items.  Keep these items in a waterproof container that can be easily transported from your home to your car and your safe place.  Assemble you kit now to allow for immediate action during an emergency.  Your family's disaster supply kit should include at least a five-day supply of:

• Water - One gallon of water per person per day.

• Non-perishable food - Select food items that are compact and lightweight.  Include the following items:

  • Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables

  • Canned juices

  • High energy foods

  • Vitamins

  • Comfort goods

  • Condiments

  • Food for infant

• Clothing and bedding - Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person and the following weather-appropriate items:

  • Sturdy shoes or work boots

  • Rain gear

  • Blankets or sleeping bags

  • Hat and gloves

  • Thermal underwear

  • Sunglasses

• First aid supplies

• Tools and emergency supplies

• First aid supplies

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Non-electric can opener, utility knife

• Tube Tent

• Tape

• Matches in a waterproof container

• Plastic storage containers

• Paper, pencil

• Medicine dropper

• Whistle

• Sanitation supplies

• Louisiana Citizen Awareness and Disaster Evacuation Guide

• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries

• Cash or traveler's checks, change

• Fire extinguisher: small canister ABC-type

• Pliers

• Compass

• Aluminum foil

• Signal flare

• Needles, thread

• Shut-off wrench to turn off household gas and water

• Plastic sheeting

• Official DOTD Travel Map

• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils

• Special Items - Infant and medical supplies: Remember supplies for family members with special requirements, such as infants, elderly, persons with disabilities and persons taking medication

• Entertainment - Games and books

• Important family documents

  • Wills, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds

  • Passports, social security cards and immunization records

  • Bank account numbers

  • Credit card account numbers and company addresses

  • Inventory of valuable household goods and important telephone numbers

  • Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates)

Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members.  Keep a smaller version of the supply kit in the trunk of your car.  Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh.  Replace your stored food every six months.  Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year.  Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.