Preparing a 72 Hour Kit
There are many types of disasters: floods, fires, earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes. It is estimated that after a major disaster, it may take up to three days for relief workers to reach some areas. It would be wise to consider a Go Pack that you could live on for 7-10 days. In such a case, if you live in a disaster prone area a 72-hour kit is the minimum you should have available.
** Plan your go pack accordingly to your family’s size.
72 Hour Kit
- 1-2 Gallons of water per person, per day should be stored for sanitation and drinking
- Method of water purification
- Food
- 72 + Hour Supply of Food and Water
- Warmth and Shelter
- Windproof/waterproof matches
- Second method to start a fire
- Tent/shelter
- Wool-blend Blanket
- Sleeping Bag
- Emergency reflective blanket
- Lightweight stove and fuel
- Hand and body warm packs
- Poncho
- Light Sources
- Flashlight with batteries
- Candle
- Light Stick
- Tools
- Pocket Knife
- Shovel
- Hatchet or Axe
- Sewing kit
- 50-foot nylon rope
- First Aid
- First Aid kit and supplies
- Burn gel and dressings
- Bottle of potassium iodide tablets
- Communications
- Radio with batteries or radio with alternate power sources
- Whistle with neck cord
- Personal Sanitation
- Personal Comfort kit (include soap, toothbrush and gel, comb, tissue, sanitary napkins, razor), and other needed items
- Extra clothing
- A complete outfit of appropriate clothing for each family member. Include extra socks, underwear, hat, sturdy shoes, and gloves
- Money
- At least $50 in small bills in your kit. Be sure to include quarters and dimes for phone calls
- Stress Relievers – Games, books, hard candy, inspirational reading. For children: small toys, paper and pen, favorite security items
- Important papers
- Copies of documents important to your family (such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, wills, insurance forms), phone numbers you might need, credit card information
- Additional items
- Extra food
- Camp stove mess kits and other cooking equipment
- Insect repellent, Sun block
- Portable toilet
- Special medication (extra glasses)
- Portable Container
- Durable water resistant duffel bag, frame pack or day pack