Red Cross advises compilation of kits in case of disaster

Thunderstorms, tornadoes, floods, fires, and toxic spills occur in the Midwest every year, and about 175 disasters occur everyday throughout the country. The American Red Cross suggests families and individuals have water, food, a first aid kit, tools, supplies, clothing and bedding on hand in preparation for such a disaster.

The following is a list of items for a home disaster kit.

• Water - Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid containers that can decompose or break. Store one gallon of water per person per day (two quarts for drinking, two quarts for food preparation/sanitation). Keep at least a three-day supply of water for each person in your household.

• Food - Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food for each member of the family. Select foods requiring no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water. Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables. Canned juices, milk, soup (if powdered, store extra water). Staples - sugar, salt, pepper.

• First Aid Kit - Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes, 2-inch and 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 of each), Hypoallergenic adhesive tape, Triangular bandages, 2-inch and 3-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls of each), scissors, tweezers, needle, moistened towelettes, antiseptic, thermometer, assorted sizes of safety pins, cleansing agent/soap, latex gloves (2 pair), non-prescription drugs.

• Tools and Supplies - Battery operated radio and extra batteries, Flashlight and extra batteries, Cash or traveler’s checks, change, Fire extinguisher: small canister, ABC type, Clothing and Bedding, Sturdy shoes or work boots, Blankets or sleeping bags, Hat and gloves.

For more information on creating a disaster supplies kit or for a comprehensive list of items to include in a disaster kit, contact the Tri-County American Red Cross at (563) 583-6451.