Ready.gov, a website sponsored by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, offers resources and advice on how to survive in an emergency. One of the tactics that Ready.gov suggests is a survival pack that can be easily transferred from your home to your car so you have provisions for at least 72 hours. When assembling your survival kit, remember to include key components that will allow you to be ready for anything.
Food
Food is an obvious necessity when assembling your survival kit, but food that will keep well is the best choice. Since you won't necessarily be using your survival kit immediately, choose non-perishable foods that offer plenty of protein and fiber. Good choices include beef jerky; MRE. or meals ready to eat; crackers; and dried fruit, AskMen.com says. Add protein and granola bars, and write down expiration dates so you can replace old food when necessary.
Water
Ready.gov recommends that you include at least 1 gallon of water per day for each person that would be using the survival kit. For a 72-hour kit, that means you'll need at least three gallons of water per person. Bottled water is a good choice, but make sure you also include water-purification tablets. These will allow you to purify any water so it is drinkable and available for cooking and washing, if necessary.
First Aid
Your survival kit should have basic first-aid supplies, suggests the San Francisco Department of Management. A basic first-aid kit should include gauze, medical tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, isopropyl alcohol, cotton balls, over-the-counter pain relievers and any prescription medication you or your family members might need if away from home for an extended period.
Electronics
You don't want to be caught without basic ways to communicate with others, so include certain electronics in your survival kit. A flashlight is a must in the event of a power outage, and make sure you also have spare batteries. A small transistor radio can help you stay in touch with current events and get vital information through broadcasting sources. You also might need a spare cellphone charger and a digital or disposable camera in case you need to document a disaster for insurance purposes.
Gear
Some miscellaneous gear can make your survival kit more functional. Some items might not have an apparent use immediately in an emergency but could become useful later. TheSurvivalMom.com says you should pack rope, emergency blankets, a whistle, ground covers, a multipurpose tool or knife, a shovel, waterproof matches and duct tape.
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