You never know when disaster might strike such as a storm, flood, tornado or chemical spill. An important part of having an emergency plan is to have a kit of emergency supplies. Many of the items you probably already have on hand and is just a matter of collecting the supplies in a central location. A disaster can come without warning, are you prepared?
What to include in a DIY emergency supplies kit
Food
- Perishable goods – Canned food that does not require cooking, water or special preparation
- Can opener
- Plastic utensils
- Water – At minimum three gallons per person per day that can be used for personal drinking, animals and other purposes.
First-Aid Kit
- Adhesive bandages
- Sterilizing solution such as hydrogen peroxide
- Antibiotic ointment
- Cotton balls
- Tweezer
- Bandage wrap
- Nonprescription drugs, e.g. pain relievers and antacids
- Rubber or latex gloves
- Scissors
Tools
- Battery powered radio
- Flashlight
- Backup batteries
- Communication radios
- Matches
- Shut off wrench
- Pliers
- Protective eyewear
- Plastic bucket
- Duct tape
- Pocket knife
- Wire cutters
Emergency contact information
- Personal contacts
- Fire Department
- Police Department
- Insurance Agent
- Veterinarian
- Poison Control
- Include written directions about how to get to the home, field, or work area.
Misc.
- Protective clothing, bedding or sleeping bag
- Sanitation and hygiene items (hand soap, toilet paper, paper towel, garbage bag)
- Rain gear
This list is not all-encompassing but is a good place to start. Having the right supplies can make a stressful situation more manageable. Consider developing several kits specific to the hazards, potential injury and location of the kits throughout the property. Keep these items in totes or a waterproof container to avoid water damage. Label the kit, instruct everyone on the farm where it is stored and what is in it.
Check the disaster kit every three months. Inspect for expired supplies and replace inventory as necessary. Also, make sure the supplies fit the season (e.g. source of heat in winter).
Talk to your Rural Mutual agent to make sure you’re properly prepared if disaster strikes.
