Be prepared and avoid life-threatening situations

In the event of a disaster or emergency, you may have to evacuate your home quickly.  Keep a 72 hour kit in a closet or other storage space that is easily accessible so you can grab the kit and go.  The 72 hour kit should be as compact as possible.  If the below listed items are selected and packed carefully in a duffel type bag, storage should not be difficult.

Water

One gallon of water per family member per day should be stored.  Therefore, a family of four should store at least 12 gallons of water.  This amount should be enough for drinking, food preparation, and sanitation for 72 hours.  Water should be stored in plastic containers such as milk or soft drink bottles.

Food(*)

A supply of non-perishable food should be stored.  Keep foods in supply that require no refrigeration, cooking, or preparation.  Some examples are:

  • Ready-to-eat canned meats and fish
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Smoked or dried meats
  • Canned or powdered milk or juice
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Crackers
  • Nuts
  • Health food bars
  • Hard candy
  • Vitamins

(*) Food should be rotated out of the kit at least every six months

First Aid

First aid kits should be kept in your home and in each vehicle.  Some items include:

  • Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
  • 2-inch and 3-inch sterile gauze pads
  • Hypoallergenic adhesive tape
  • Triangular bandages
  • 2-inch and 3-inch roller bandages
  • Scissors, tweezers, needle
  • Aspirin or pain reliever
  • Rubbing alcohol, antiseptic

Tools and supplies

Some key supplies for your 72-hour kit include:

  • Batter operated radio
  • Flashlight with extra batteries and bulb
  • Utility knife and manual can opener and eating utensils
  • Candles, matches, lighter
  • Aluminum foil, plastic storage containers, and plastic bags
  • Extra keys for home and vehicles
  • Emergency credit cards, money, travelers checks
  • Toilet paper and items for personal hygiene

Clothing and bedding

One complete change of clothing and footwear for each family member should be included in your kit.  Other items to consider are:

  • Hats, gloves, and thermal underwear
  • Raingear and work boots
  • Blankets and sleeping bags

Special needs

Special items are things that are unique to your family.  Some examples are:

  • Items for infant care
  • Prescription medicines
  • Contact lens supplies and extra eye glasses
  • Comfort items such as games, books, magazines
  • Important family documents


This kit should not be considered all-inclusive.  Your kit should be tailored to the specific needs of your family.  If you have any questions about Disaster Preparedness, contact your Local Emergency Manager.

 

The Gratiot County Courthouse
214 East Center Street | Ithaca, Michigan 48847