What Else To Include In 72 Hour Kits
While watching the news back in October 2007, a woman was being interviewed after being evacuated from her home due to the wild fires that were burning up Southern California. Although she was obviously concerned about what damage might be happening to her home, her concern at the moment was that she had left all of her medication in her home and did not know where to get more. With over 500,000 people displaced by these fires, imagine the time and money you would need to spend just to obtain what you already had.
With the possibility of a fire, tornado, earthquake, or any other disaster happening at any time, it is important to add a few extra items to your 72 hour kits. In the case of the woman from California, she would have greatly benefited from having copies of the prescriptions that she needs. Every prescription that is filled comes with the information that is needed for a refill printed on a sheet of paper. Once you fill your prescription just take that paper and put it in your kit. This way you will have the name of the medication, the prescription number, the dose, the pharmacy phone number, and your doctor’s name.
Along with prescriptions you should also include copies of your driver’s license or state ID, your birth certificate, and copies of your house and car keys. A change of clothes is ideal, especially if you have to leave your home in the middle of the night. A pair of sweat pants and a sweat shirt works great for every member of the family. If you have a sweet tooth, you may want to include rice crispy treats, granola bars, or any other comfort foods you might want. It is also a very good idea to include at least $100.00 in cash to purchase anything else you might come in need of.
If you have infants or toddlers you should also keep handy a bag that contains diapers, wipes, formula, and bottles if needed. For any age children you should include some form of entertainment to distract them from the situation. For toddlers and young children a color book works well and a deck of cards can help for the older children.
Last but not least, if you have pets you need to make sure to include enough food and water for them. you should also include vaccination records, medications, and a list of hotels in your area that will allow pets. If you plan on taking your pet to a shelter, make sure a pet carrier is easily accessible since some shelters will not accept pets without them.
