When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth.

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

• Water - one gallon of water per person per day for seven to ten days, for drinking and sanitation (these are the new recommendations replacing the 3 days recommended until recently).
  
  
• Food - at least a seven-day supply of non-perishable food (Also updated from 3 days)
  
  
• 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
  
  
• Cell phone with chargers
  
  

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
  
  
• Cash or traveler's checks and change
  
  
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
  
  
• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
  
  
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
  
  
• Fire Extinguisher
  
  
• Matches in a waterproof container
  
  
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  
  
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
  
  
• Paper and pencil