No matter how secure your home may be there's always a possibility for the emergency to strike from outside. In that case you might not have time to pack your things before leaving. So it's always a good idea to have your emergency kit prepared in advance. Keep in mind that outside help may not be available for days during a disaster so your emergency kit must not only include all necessary items for your survival but also be relatively easy to carry. There are many manufacturers out there providing different kinds of emergency kits. Obviously none of them can fully protect you from all of the possible disasters. So we suggest you to do your own research considering not only possible events in your area but most importantly personal needs of your family members. Meaning you have to consider different options for infants, children, elderly people or someone experiencing health problems. Discussing such matter with your family doctor can be a good starting point.
Generally your emergency kit will include:
A 2400 calorie meal per day for person (food bars, ready to eat canned meats, instant cereals, juices and soups)
At least 2 quarts of drinking water per person per day in unbreakable containers. water purification kit or bleach tablets
At least one complete change of clothes personal hygiene items (such as toilet paper, soap, toothbrush and others) anti-bacterial hand wipes
tent
sleeping bag
raincoat
waterproof matches
fire starter kit
flashlight
lantern
battery operated radio
extra batteries
valued ID
cash or check book
social security card
birth certificate
vehicle titles, mortgage, insurance and tax information
medical history including a list of family physicians
During any kind of emergency in addition to your own paper work it's always reasonable to have “Accountability Form”.
In order to make it as compact and utilized as possible your kit must only include first necessary accessories. However, as an exception personal irreplaceable items can certainly be added even if it means an extra weight and volume.