By Aaron Grossman
Caution: do not use flames inside. Cook outside. Use flashlights, not candles.
Water
- This is the single most important item! You should have one gallon per person per day.
- 1-gallon jugs are best – easily stored, carried, and replaced.
- Water filters or purification tablets are useful.
- Your hot water heater can be drained for more water.
Food
- You should have at least 3 meals per person per day for three days.
- Canned, dry, powdered, or dehydrated foods that don’t need refrigeration.
- High energy foods: peanut butter, jelly, nuts, and energy bars.
- Camping stoves and portable equipment are very useful.
- Disposable items save water.
- Pet food if you have pets.
Toilet & hygiene
- Use trash bags or a camping portable toilet.
- Toilet paper and towels, hand disinfectant, personal hygiene items.
Warm Clothing & Bedding
- Be prepared for any season.
- Bedding or sleeping bags that can keep you warm outdoors at night.
Medication – First Aid
- Any needed medications; consider lack of refrigeration for insulin.
- First Aid kit, bandages, book.
- Infant care, pet care, etc.
Tools/Equipment
- Flashlight, radio.
- Duct tape, rope, plastic sheeting.
- Broom, gloves, hammer, etc.
Car or Office Kit
- Water, energy bars.
- First aid kit, space blanket, whistle, money.
- Walking shoes, rain poncho or jacket, gloves.
- Flashlight, duct tape, tools, etc.
Documents
- Keep copies of important legal and financial documents somewhere where they will be safe from fire and water damage.
Communication
- OMVNA CERT will operate an emergency radio network on FRS channel 7. Hand-held radios will work within 3000 yards even when cell phones will not. Every family should have one per adult, plus spare batteries. ?
