We do not like to think about the chance that a natural disaster could affect our community, but those who fail to plan ahead are the ones that are affected the worst when problems arise. A 72 hour kit is a basic tool you can use to keep your family protected while you wait for help after a serious emergency situation.

In the event of a disaster, having a 72 hour kit could mean the difference between survival and destruction, yet few households have taken the time to invest in one of these. With just a little bit of forward thinking, you can be prepared for whatever nature throws your way.

A 72 hour kit is designed to give your family the means with which to survive for three days after a serious natural disaster. In most cases, this is enough time for you to be rescued or to evacuate to safer areas. So, the items in the kit are items for your basic survival.

What should it contain? Experts recommend the following:

• 1 gallon of water per person per day
• Shelf stable food that requires no cooking and minimal water
• Cooking and serving supplies for food, including can opener
• Warm clothes and rain protection for everyone
• First aid kit with instructions
• Heavy work gloves
• Eyedropper for emergency water purification
• Disposable camera
• Basic personal hygiene items
• Hand sanitizer
• Duct tape, plastic sheeting and scissors or utility knife to cover windows
• Basic tools
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Heavy duty garbage bags
• Special needs items for people with disabilities
• Pet supplies
• Prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Flashlight
• Battery operated or wind-up radio

Store all of these items in something portable, like a couple of large garbage bins with lids and wheels. Also, create a bag for each individual that contains I.D. and other absolute necessities, and store this in a backpack you can grab in an emergency evacuation. Keep all of the items in your kit somewhere safe, so you can get to them in an immediate emergency situation. If you do, then your family will be as prepared as possible should the unthinkable happen.