Guest Author - Sheri Stritof

If you've already set up an emergency survival kit in case of natural disasters, you need to add two more items to it in light of recent terrorist concerns. If you don't have a kit of emergency supplies, now is the time to get one together.

Make sure that your kit is in a water-proof container that is easily accessible. Some families also have an extra kit in the trunk of their car.

Items to have in your emergency surival kit include:

Duct tape

Plastic sheeting

First-aid kit (bandages, tape, scissors, tweezers, needle, rubbing alcohol, antiseptic, aspirin, needed medications)

Hygiene pack

Extra clothing and shoes (at least one warm outfit for each person)

Extra set of eyeglasses

Copies of important documents

Emergency (space) blanket

Spare car keys

Air-activated hand warmers

Nonperishable food for 3 days (12 food bars per person is sufficient, or canned meat, fruits and vegetables, juice, crackers, peanut butter, etc.)

Non-electric can opener

Cash

Water for 3 days (2 quarts per person to drink, and 2 quarts per person for sanitation uses)

Water-proof radio

Light sticks (minimum 2)

Flashlight with extra batteries

Tarp

Rope

Pry bar

Knife

Matches

Gloves

Pet food and water if you have pets

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the duct tape and plastic sheeting can be used to seal off windows and doors in case there is a chemical or biological attack.

Have a designated contact person out of your area for everyone to call in an emergency situation.

Regularly check your emergency kit to make sure items are still in good shape. Some things like food, water, medicines, and batteries need to be replaced on a regular basis.

~ Sheri Goeser Stritof