Water is definitely the single most
important item in your disaster kit. Small children, the elderly and nursing
mothers especially feel the effects of water deprivation. This effect can be
intensified in direct relation to the temperature of the day.
A normally active person needs to drink
about 2 quarts of water a day. If high heat and excessive activity are figured
in water intake should be increased. Store at least one gallon of water per
person per day. Account for two quarts for hydration and two quarts for body
washing, food preparation and keeping eating utensils clean.
Rotate and change your water supply every
six months to make sure that it remains fresh.
How Much Food Is Enough?
Store at least a two-week supply of
non-perishable foods in your disaster kit. Select foods that are easy to cook
and require no refrigeration and use minimal amounts of water to prepare.
Remember to rotate your food supply to ensure freshness.
Keep a 2-week supply of nonperishable food
at home in case of a disaster. Select foods that require no refrigeration,
preparation or cooking, and little or no water. Rotate the food with newly
purchased food supplies to ensure freshness. Food should be used and replaced
every six months.
You should also have a supply of “canned
heat” to cook your food. Each family member should have a plate, cup and
utensils for their use. Consider packing some bleach for disinfecting dishes
and also plastic wrap or re-sealable bags for food storage.
Some edible items for consideration are:
fruits, vegetables, juice boxes, peanut butter, cheese spreads, canned soup and
crackers, canned tuna or salmon, instant coffee, cereals and powdered milk.
Make sure you include a manual can opener or better yet a Swiss Army knife so
that you can open your food.
This is also a good time to address any
special dietary needs of any family members. Is anyone diabetic? Do you have
small children that use specific formulas? Need any baby food, diapers,
medications or bottles? Pack it now.