Emergency Preparation Begins with a Disaster Supply Kit. Disasters and emergencies can strike at any time causing you and your family to have to evacuate your home or remain confined to your home for extended periods of time. Often, during disasters, utility systems (electricity, gas, water, phone, etc) may be interrupted or unavailable for several days. State and local health and emergency management officials recommend having enough supplies on hand to sustain you and your family for at least five to seven days. Your disaster supply kit is a collection of basic items a family would need to stay safe and be more comfortable during and after a disaster and should contain the following:

Water - At least one gallon of water per person per day. (Remember to change out stored water every six months.)
Food - Non-perishable foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water (for example : canned goods, granola bars, peanut butter, etc.)
First Aid Kit - Basic first aid supplies, as well as prescription and non-prescription medications including vitamins, and eyeglasses.
Tools and Supplies - Paper plates, cups and utensils; battery operated radio; flashlight; extra batteries; wrenches; duct tape; whistle; utility knife; sanitation items such as toilet paper, soap, feminine supplies, garbage bags, bleach, towelettes, hand sanitizer; matches in waterproof container
Clothing and Bedding - At least one change of clothing and footwear for each person, hats, gloves, rain gear, blankets or sleeping bags, thermal underwear, coat
Special Items - Important family documents (wills, insurance policies, deeds, stock, bonds, passports, Birth certificates, social security cards, immunization records, bank and credit card account numbers),entertainment (books, board games, cards) and pet supplies. Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers.