Building a Survival Kit

Typically in Midwest states like Ohio, we think of building a survival kit to have during warmer weather months because of the threat of tornadoes and floods. We tend to forget that it is also important to have in the winter when blizzards or ice storms can wreak havoc. Power can be knocked out for days, and travel can be treacherous. This year has been a quite mild winter, but weather can change quickly, so it is still important to be prepared.

38 Quart Heavy Duty Storage Container

First, have a container or two that is easily carried to put your supplies in. A plastic storage tote like the one pictured here is the perfect type to use. It has secure latches to keep the container closed and mostly air and watertight. Also, be sure to store loose items in airtight plastic bags for extra protection.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a downloadable list of what to put into your survival 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
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
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
Manual can opener for food
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept. Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers. Don't forget to replace expired items as needed, and evaluate your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

When you are looking for totes like the ones in the picture above, check out Edge Plastics. This woman-owned, made-in-America company offers private labeling on all products and a unique color palette for customers to choose from. Their products can be found at large retailers throughout the United States and Canada. Edge Plastics also gladly maintains additional inventory for emergency relief response to disasters like hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes.

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