72-Hour Kit Essentials
To provide maximum protection in an emergency, a 72-hour kit should be:
Portable. Your kit won’t be of much value in an evacuation if you can’t carry it. Keep it compact and lightweight.
Easily accessible. Keep your kit near an exit door, where you can grab it and go. Don’t bury it under clutter.
Up-to-date. Rotate food and medications at least every six months. Check the clothing annually to make sure it fits. Check expiration dates on batteries.
Complete. Check your kit regularly to make sure you have everything your family needs for three days’ survival.
Waterproof. Put all items inside ziplock bags or tied plastic garbage bags, so they won’t be ruined by rain or flood water.
Usable. Make sure you know how to use everything in your kit, and that the supplies are of good quality. Don’t weigh down your kit with junk.
Divisible. Provide a backpack or portable container for each family member, in case you get separated.
Personalized. No commercial kit or generic supply list will completely provide for the unique needs of your family. You will need to adjust the contents and check them frequently to make sure your current needs such as medications, baby supplies, and so forth, are met.
Versatile. Make sure your kit contains supplies for sheltering at home as well as for evacuation.
