When a disaster strikes, or is about to strike, it is likely you will not have time to shop for essential items. Whether you are sheltering in place or need to evacuate, there are a number of basic items you will need at your disposal. That is why it is critical that every household assemble an emergency kit ahead of time and keep it current. You should review the contents of your kit at least once a year and refresh any expired or outdated items. Below is a list of basic items to include in your emergency kit, as well as items Mississippians with disabilities/special needs should consider including, as well.
Large Storage Container – to keep all of the supplies of the kit in one spot
Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
Food – at least enough for 3 to 7 days, including:
any special food needed for dietary purposes
non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
snack foods
non-electric can opener
cooking tools / fuel
paper plates / plastic utensils
Written instructions for care and medication
list of all medications and their dosages
list of all doctors
list of the styles and serial numbers of medical devices you use
First Aid Kit – medicines / prescription drugs including:
an extra supply of required prescription medications (you should have medication for at least two weeks)
extra oxygen if necessary
adhesive bandages
bug repellent
burn cream
aspirin
pain relievers
rubbing alcohol
hydrogen peroxide
Extra Set of Eyeglasses and Hearing Aid Batteries
Blankets / Pillows, etc.
Clothing – seasonal /rain gear/ sturdy shoes
Toiletries – hygiene items / moisture wipes
Flashlights – each family member should have their own flashlight.
Batteries
Radio – a hand-cranked or solar powered radio is ideal; if using a battery operated radio, buy at least seven sets of batteries for the kit
Telephones – fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
Cash and Credit Cards – banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods; make sure cash is in small bills
Extra Set of Keys – home and car
Toys, Books and Games
Important documents – in a waterproof container or watertight re-sealable plastic bag
extra copies of medical insurance documents and Medicare/Medicaid cards
other insurance records (home, car, etc.)
medical records
bank account numbers
Social Security card, etc.
Tools – keep a set with you during the storm; gather together sheets of plastic, tools, nails, duct tape and paint
Vehicle fuel tanks filled
Pet care items
proper identification / immunization records / medications
ample supply of food and water
carrier or cage
muzzle and leash
Whistle
People with mobility disabilities should consider including the following in their emergency kit:
Pair of heavy gloves to use while wheeling or making your way over glass and debris
Extra battery for your motorized wheelchair or scooter
Jumper cables or specific recharging device to be connected to an automobile’s cigarette lighter
Patch kit or can of “seal-in-air product” to repair flat tires
Spare cane or walker
Food, medicine, favorite toy, and other care items for your service animal
Plastic bags, disposable gloves and other items for the animal’s care
People with sensory disabilities should consider including the following in their emergency kit:
Pad of paper with pens or pencils for writing notes
Extra batteries for tape recorders, portable TTYs, etc.
Extra pair of eye glasses
Extra pair of dark glasses, if medically required
Extra set of hearing-aid batteries
Folding mobility cane
Food, medicine and favorite toy for your service animal
Plastic bags, disposable gloves and other items for the animal’s care
People with developmental or cognitive disabilities should consider including the following in their emergency kit:
Alternate power source or spare batteries for communication device
Paper and writing materials