Disaster Supplies Kit

Grades K-12

Adapted from the FEMA/American Red Cross
Disaster Preparedness Coloring Book

Background

Following a natural hazard, basic services – electricity, water, gas, telephones – may be cut off for days. Or, you may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice. You probably won’t have time to shop or search for the supplies you’ll need. Gather the supplies you’ll need to deal with the situation now, before a natural hazard happens.

Time Needed

One class period

Materials

In the Classroom At Home
  • The class roster
  • A first aid kit
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Work gloves
  • Flashlights
  • Extra batteries
  • Non-perishable food items; crackers, cookies, trail mix
  • Plastic trash bags
  • Other items as your school requires.
  • One gallon of water per person per day
  • Non-perishable food: ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables; canned juices, milk and soup; sugar, salt and pepper; high energy foods such as peanut butter, jelly, crackers, nuts, health food bars, trail mix; comfort foods such as cookies, hard candy and sweetened cereal. Don’t forget a non-electric can opener.
  • A first aid kit that contains your family's prescription medications (ask your doctor about proper ways to store medicine)
  • Emergency supplies and tools including a battery operated radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
  • One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person
  • Sanitation supplies: toilet paper, soap, personal hygiene items
  • Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members
  • An extra set of car keys and cash, traveler’s checks and a credit card

Instructions

  1. Store enough supplies to last at least three days.
  2. Keep them in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffle bags or covered trash containers.
  3. Store your kits in a safe, convenient place known to all family members – preferably in a cool, dry, dark place.
  4. Keep a smaller version of this kit in the trunk of your car. You should also keep important family documents in a waterproof container.
  5. Keep your kits in working order. Change the water and food every six months; replace the batteries at least twice a year.
  6. You might also want to keep books and games in your disaster supplies kit.
  7. Color the picture family (click here for printable version).