Preparedness is the key to survival in any disaster, including hurricanes and terrorism, and having a family disaster supply kit handy can aid in recovery. The following shopping list should help residents to assemble the basic items for a family disaster supply kit over a four-week period without causing a financial burden.
Week One
Hardware store:
Containers to hold disaster supply kit (large plastic tub with lid, backpack, etc.)
2 flashlights
1 portable tool kit
1 roll of duct tape
1 utility knife
1 tarp (to cover a leaky roof if necessary)
1 battery-operated radio
Batteries for flashlights and radio
Purchase or gather from existing household supply:
1 blanket or sleeping bag for each member of the household
1 small pillow for each member of the household
Towels
Books or games for entertainment
1 local road map
1 set of extra clothing and shoes for each member of the household
Week Two
Grocery store:
3 cans of meat for each member of the household (i.e., tuna, chicken, chili, beef stew, corned beef, Spam)
3 cans of ready-to-eat soup for each member of the household
3 cans of vegetables for each member of the household
3 cans of fruit for each member of the household
1 box of heavy-duty garbage bags with ties
1 box zip-lock food storage bags for storing important papers and small items
1 hand-operated can opener
Week Three
Drug store:
1 toothbrush for each member of the household
1 large tube toothpaste
1 bottle each of necessary over-the-counter and prescription medications
1 box sanitary wipes or liquid hand sanitizer
1 package of sanitary napkins or tampons
1 bottle shampoo
1 family-size first aid kit
Week 4
Grocery store:
3 gallons of water for each member of the household, including pets
