Preparing for an emergency before it occurs means keeping survival gear on hand. While survival kits range from bare-bones basic to advanced with all the trimmings, most survival kits will contain the same basic list of survival gear. Periodically check a survival kit after assembling it, as some items may need to be replaced over time.
Water
According to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Red Cross, water is the single most important item to include in your survival gear. Plan on one gallon of water per person per day. Sealed bottled water is a safe and convenient way to add water to your survival gear. Replace bottled water once a year.
Food
Food items included in a survival kit should be non-perishable and easy to prepare, according to the American Red Cross. Plan on three days' worth of food per person if your kit is to be used for evacuation, and two weeks' worth of food per person if your kit will be used within your own home. Examine food items periodically and replace those that are past their expiration date.
First-Aid Kit
Any survival kit should include basic first-aid items such as bandages of various sizes, disinfectant, antibiotic ointment and burn ointment, and at least two pairs of latex gloves. You should also pack dust masks, feminine hygiene supplies, needed medications and needed medical equipment in a first-aid kit, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Check the kit periodically for expired medications and replace them.
Electrical Items
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a basic survival kit should contain at least three separate electrical items: a flashlight and spare batteries, a battery-operated or crank-operated radio, and a cell phone and charger. Opt for a radio that can receive signals from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's weather transmitters, as it will help you keep track of conditions in a weather-related emergency such as a tornado or hurricane.
Tools
Include a jackknife or all-purpose tool in your survival gear. According to the American Red Cross, such a tool can come in handy for any number of purposes. If you might be involved in an emergency that forces you to evacuate your home, also include a wrench or other tools you'll need to turn off utilities before you go. If your survival gear includes canned food, pack a can opener.
Information
Pack a map of the surrounding area in your survival gear. It may come in handy if you are forced to leave your home, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Also, pack lists of the contact information for each member of your family, as well as contact information for relatives whom you may need to reach for help if you are evacuated. Finally, if you or any family member suffers from medical conditions, document these.
