Emergency Supply Kit

There are many types of potential emergencies in New England. It is estimated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that after a major emergency or disaster, it may take up to 72 hours (3 days) or more for relief workers to reach some areas. To be properly prepared for an emergency or disaster scenario, a 72-Hour Emergency Home Preparedness Kit is the minimum that should be made ready with enough supplies for all family members and guests in a single residence. If possible, it is advised to stock enough emergency supplies to last a week or more while the area recovers and life begins to return to normal.

An Emergency/Disaster Supply Kit for your home should contain:
• Manual can opener
• Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Water purification tablets
• Disposable plates, cups and utensils
• Prescription medication (2 week supply)
• Pet food/Pet supplies
• First aid kit
• Sewing kit
• Masking/Duct Tape
• Flashlight or lantern
• Battery operated radio
• Extra batteries for all devised
• Watch or clock
• Matches
• Canned heat (sterno)
• Trash bags
• Chlorinated bleach
• Personal hygiene items
• Blankets/Bedding
• Small set of tools (hammer, screwdriver, hatchet, pocket knife, nails, pliers)
• Copy of important documents (kept in a zip-lock bag or water proof container)

There are times when emergencies happen when you are on the road. An abbreviated kit of supplies can be kept in your car, in the event you become stranded:
• Food
• Water
• First aid kit
• Flares
• Jumper cables
• Seasonal supplies (blanket, sunscreen)

This information was provided by John Ciccotelli, Director of Public Health for the town of Canton, Massachusetts, as published in his “A Canton Citizens’ Handbook for Emergency Preparedness”.