12 Essential Items To Put In A Basic Emergency Kit

As the saying goes: "Prevent trouble before it happens." If you are fully prepared before or when the disaster occurs, your chances of survival will be greatly increased.

After an emergency, you may need to survive for a few days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies for a few days. A preparedness go kit is a collection of basic items that a family may need in an emergency.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

1. Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
2. Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food, such as canned food, remember to bring a can opener, compressed biscuits, etc.)
3. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with SOS alarm
4. First aid kit and medication
5. Whistle (to signal for help)
6. Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
7. Plastic sheeting, duct tape and large plastic film (to shelter and seal the door in place)
8. Toilet paper, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
9. Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
10. Local maps
11. Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery or power bank
12. Cash