How to Build Your Own 72-hour Kit
Here are some guidelines you can use, as you get your 72-hour kit together. Don’t scrimp on them; these are all necessary items you need to survive. They are not extravagant, but can help you make it through until help arrives. Make sure you have one kit for each person in your household.
Food:
It’s important that you pick foods that can hold if there is no power. Try to pick ones that will also have some nutritional needs, such as soup or granola bars. You want to think of ones that might need minimal cooking as well. Picking up Spaghetti-O’s or your favorite soup can also be economical, as they are often on sale.
Try to pack drinks that also might have some nutrition, such as Gatorade or Vitamin Waters. You might want to consider some comfort foods, especially if you have small children. Small, snack sized candies like the ones given on Halloween would be perfect for this.
Water:
Water can be stored easily, and you can fill it up right from your sink at home, there is no need to rush out and buy gallons of water. You can use various containers, like 2 liter soda bottles. Don’t use milk bottles, as it’s virtually impossible to remove all the leftover milk from inside. You should rotate this on a regular basis to keep it fresh, and figure on 1 gallon of water per person, per day. You can also pick up some water purification kits.
Shelter and Warmth:
If you are able to stay in your own home, than you have the shelter you need. If however, you need to evacuate, keep some camping supplies on hand like a tent and sleeping bags. If you don’t have a tent, even plastic with rope ties will do, to keep you out of the elements. Bring blankets and warm clothes, such as sweatpants and sweatshirts.
Cooking:
You can cook fairly easily if you have a portable grill, or even some charcoal to make a temporary grill. You can purchase small stoves that run off of sterno as well. Just make sure you use them outside, as they require ventilation. Pick up some waterproof matches and fire starter as well.
Light:
Oil lamps are easy to use, and easy to store, and can also provide a heat source. Make sure you have flashlights on hand, as well as plenty of back up batteries. Candles and matches can also work.
Communication:
This is an often forgotten about area. Even something as simple as a whistle can work if you need to catch someone’s attention to find you. Keep on hand a two-way radio as well.
Personal Hygiene:
You will need simple hygiene items such as a toothbrush, razor, shampoo and a comb. Travel sizes are small enough to store, and can be used in a pinch.
If you have children, make sure you also set aside enough diapers to get you through for a few days.
First Aid:
A simple first aid kit is an absolute must. You can purchase them pre-packed, or make your own. Make sure you include instructions for basic first aid care.
Clothing:
Pack a change of clothing, extra socks and underwear as well as a jacket and a hat. Gloves and hiking shoes are also great additions if you have the room.
Important “stuff:”
It’s important to have all of your documents with you such as your birth certificates or passports, the deed to your house as well as any bank statements. Also if you include some of your own prized family photos, you might feel more at ease.
Make sure you also have money in your kit, preferably in small denominations in the event that banks are closed and ATM machines are down.
You can also pack things to do, such as coloring books and crayons or small pocket-sized board games similar to the travel games they sell in stores. It will cut down on the boredom.
You never know when an event will happen, and what the outcome will be. Make sure you have supplies on hand to help you get through the first few days.
