Here is a checklist of items you should have as part of a 72-Hour Emergency Kit:
- Flashlight and batteries (in case the lights go out)
- Radio and batteries or crank radio (so you can listen to news bulletins)
- Spare batteries (for radio and flashlight)
- First-aid kit
- Candles and matches/lighter
- Extra car keys and cash (including coins/cards for telephone)
- Important papers (identification for everyone, personal documents)
- Food and bottled water (see food list)
- Clothing and footwear (one change of clothes per person)
- Blankets or sleeping bags (one blanket or sleeping bag per person)
- Toilet paper and other personal supplies
- Medication
- Backpack/duffel bag (for the emergency survival kit, in case you have to evacuate)
- Whistle (in case you need to attract someone’s attention)
- Playing cards, game
- Waterproof matches and plastic garbage bags
Emergency Food and Water Kit
- Drinking Water: Have at least a three-day supply of food and water on hand - At least two litres per person per day
- Food: Choose ready-to-eat foods that your family likes - that doesn’t need refrigeration.
- Examples: Canned food - soups, stews, baked beans, pasta, meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, fruits, crackers and biscuits, honey, peanut butter, salt and pepper, sugar, instant coffee, tea, hot chocolate, power bars
- Equipment: Knives, forks, spoons, disposable cups and plates, manual can opener, bottle opener, fuel stove and fuel (follow manufacturer's instructions)
- Don't use a barbecue indoors.