Why you need an emergency kit

If the daily news of natural disasters around the globe is causing you to think about a possible crisis hitting close to home, then take the next step and act. Most of us believe that disasters are not likely to occur until they happen, leaving no time for preparation or forethought.

The site ready.gov recommends that a household should plan to stock supplies that will sustain the family for at least 3 days. While ready-made kits are available for purchase, Wisebread contributor Andrea Dickson recommends making your own, especially since most households already have a number of the essentials:

• Water–one gallon per person per day for 3 days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food–3-day supply of non-perishables and can opener
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle
• Dust mask
• Wrench or pliers for utility shut-off
• Towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

The site also lists additional items you may want to include like cash, prescription meds, and copies of important documents (insurance papers and family records). When your kit is ready, identify a meeting place for separated family members and how key information will be communicated to outside persons (like extended family). Being prepared for an emergency will give you peace of mind now and a secure plan in the unlikely event of a disaster.