Earth Science Week Classroom Activities
Disaster Supplies Kit
Activity Source:
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
| Essentials for the Class | Essentials for the Family |
|---|---|
| - 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
- Store enough supplies to last at least three days.
- Keep them in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffle bags or covered trash containers.
- Store your kits in a safe, convenient place known to all family members – preferably in a cool, dry, dark place.
- Keep a smaller version of this kit in the trunk of your car. You should also keep important family documents in a waterproof container.
- Keep your kits in working order. Change the water and food every six months; replace the batteries at least twice a year.
- You might also want to keep books and games in your disaster supplies kit.
- Color the picture family (click here for printable version).