The 72-Hour Kit

It's now typhoon season. At times like this, our readiness to live through the rains and floods must be checked. In case, are we ready to survive for three days of incessant rains? Can we sustain ourselves for three days during a calamity? 

To increase our chances of survival, we are advised often to be ready with our food storage and emergency survival skills. This includes having the handy 72-hour kit. In case there is a need to evacuate, this kit should be easy and light enough to carry. For practical reasons, each family member should have prepared and be able to carry his own 72-hour kit.

72-hour kit

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Here is a list of items to include in a 72-hour kit. Be sure everyone knows the content of his or her kit and never lose sight of it in the event of an evacuation from home.

Food and Water

(Must be good for a three-day supply for each member of the family)

• Protein or Granola Bars
• Dried Fruits
• Crackers/Biscuits/Cereals
• Canned goods like corned beef, corned tuna, pork and beans
• Candies and chocolates that wouldn't melt in storage
• Other foods that will not require cooking or heating
• Water (1 Gallon/4 Liters Per Person)

Bedding and Clothing

• Change of Clothing (short and long sleeved shirts, pants, jackets, socks, etc.)
• Undergarments
• Rain Coat/Poncho
• Blankets 
• Cloth Sheet
• Plastic Sheet

Fuel and Light

• Flashlight
• Extra Batteries
• Candles
• Lighter
• Water-Proof Matches

Equipment

• Can opener
• Dishes/Utensils
• Battery-operated Radio
• Pen and Paper
• Pocket Knife
• Rope
• Duct Tape
• Cellular phone
• Whistle 

Personal Supplies and Medication

• First Aid Kit and Supplies
• Toiletries packed in a plastic bag (feminine wash, baby wipes, toilet paper, soaps, toothbrush, etc.)
• Medication (Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Antihistamine, children's medication etc.)
• Prescription Medication (for 3 days)

Personal Documents and Money

• Scriptures
• Birth/Marriage Certificates, Wills, Passports, Contracts, etc.
• Vaccination Papers
• Insurance Policies
• Cash
• Credit Card
• Pre-Paid Phone Cards

Miscellaneous

• Lightweight, waterproof bags to put 72-hour kit items in
• Infant supplies (if needed)

Reminders:

• Check for expired items and update your 72-hour kit every six months. Be sure that personal documents and credit cards are up to date.
• Pack in some small toys as they will provide some comfort and entertainment during a stressful time especially to children.
• Some items and/or flavors might leak, contaminate other items, or break open. Group items and put them in sealed containers or plastic bags.
• Include other items in your 72-hour kit that you feel are necessary for your family's survival.

Be safe, everyone!

Reference: http://lds.about.com/od/preparednessfoodstorage/a/72hour_kit.htm