Anyone who has lived through a disaster situation (evacuated to a shelter; no power; no water; etc) can tell you that there are certain items that are needed when you can't get to the store, or walk to your pantry or closet.
Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services--water, gas, electricity or telephones--were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away.
FEMA and Emergency Management agencies recommend that you put together a "Disaster Supply" kit that is located in a easily accessible location of your residence. The recommend "rule of thumb" to follow is to plan for a need of at least three days of supplies per person!
As a radio operator, there are a few other items that you might want to bring along in the event of a activation, or evacuation.
General Purpose Disaster Supplies Kit.
ARRL Recommended Basic "Go Kit" for ARES members.
A Expanded "Jump Kit" for up to 72 hours of operation.
There are six basics you should stock for your home:
Keep the items that you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to carry container--suggested items are marked with an asterisk(*). Possible containers include a large, covered trash container, a camping backpack, or a duffle bag.
Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles. A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts of water each day. Hot environments and intense physical activity can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need more.
Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno. Select food items that are compact and lightweight. Include a selection of the following foods in your Disaster Supplies Kit:
Assemble a first aid kit for your home and one for each car.
*Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person.
Remember family members with special requirements, such as infants and elderly or disabled persons.
Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members. Keep a smaller version of the supplies kit in the trunk of your car. Keep items in airtight plastic bags. Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh. Replace your stored food every six months. Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year. Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.
Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications.
From "Disaster Supplies Kit." developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross.
Page Last Updated, 05/09/09