The Georgia Office of Homeland Security (GEMA) advised that all Americans should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs. Following is a listing of some basic items that every emergency supply kit should include. However, it is important that individuals review this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of their family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will meet these needs. Individuals should also consider having at least two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time.

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
• Local maps

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

Prescription medications and glasses

• Infant formula and diapers
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. You can use the EFFAK (Emergency Financial First Aid Kit) developed by Operation Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your information
• Cash or traveler's checks and change
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from
• www.ready.gov
• 2006 Georgia Hurricane Plan

  3D Hurricane Images

  Be Aware, Be Prepared

  How to Create a Disaster Supplies Kit

  Hurricane Action Checklist

  Hurricane Information

  Hurricane Preparedness Web site links

  Hurricane Terms to Know

  Names for Atlantic Storms 2005 - 2007

  Prepare your Pets for Disasters

  Public Radio stations

  Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

  Source: Georgia Office of Homeland Security (GEMA)