You should always have an Emergency Kit ready in your home in preparation for any disasters. This will save you precious time during those crucial moments before the disaster arrives. To assemble your kit, store your items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items below:
- Water (One gallon per person per day, for at least 14 days)
- Food (14-day supply of non-perishable, high calorie food per person)
- Battery-powered/hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio
- Flashlight + extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle (signal for help)
- Dust mask
- Moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, plastic ties, and garbage bags (to contain waste) for personal hygiene
- Wrench or pliers (turn off utilities)
- Local maps
- Cell phone + charger + extra battery
- Blanket
The above items are just the basic survival items that should be included in your emergency kit. Make sure you consider the unique needs you and your family might have, especially for pets, infants, and seniors. After putting together your emergency kit, be sure to designate a special place for it and notify all members of your household of the location.
For more preparedness information, please visit the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency website