Welcome to our latest blog post where we will be discussing the 15 essential items that make up the American Red Cross Survival Kit. As we all know, disasters and emergency situations can happen at any time and it is important to be prepared. That’s where the American Red Cross Survival Kit comes in – a comprehensive set of items designed to help you stay safe and comfortable during unexpected events. In this post, we’ll explore what the kit includes and why each item is important. Let’s dive in!

15 Items You Need for Your American Red Cross Survival Kit

Introduction

Disasters can happen anytime and anywhere, so it’s important to have a well-stocked survival kit ready to go. A good place to start is with the American Red Cross Emergency Preparedness Kit Checklist. This checklist provides a comprehensive list of items that should be included in your survival kit. In this article, we will go over each item and why it is important to have it in your kit.

The Checklist

1. One gallon of water per person per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)

Water is essential for our survival, and it’s important to have enough of it in the event of an emergency. The American Red Cross recommends having a three-day supply of water for evacuation and a two-week supply for your home. This is to ensure that you have enough water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

2. Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)

In an emergency situation, it may be difficult to find food. That’s why it’s important to have non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food in your survival kit. The American Red Cross recommends having a three-day supply of food for evacuation and a two-week supply for your home.

3. Flashlight

In an emergency, power may be out, and it may be difficult to see. That’s why it’s important to have a flashlight in your kit. Make sure to have extra batteries on hand, too.

4. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

During an emergency, it’s important to stay informed about what’s happening. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can help you receive important news and updates.

5. Extra batteries

Having extra batteries on hand is important for your flashlight and radio. Make sure to check your batteries periodically and replace them as needed.

6. First-aid kit and medications (7-day supply)

A well-stocked first-aid kit is essential in an emergency. It should include items such as bandages, gauze, disinfectant, and pain relievers. Don’t forget to include any medications you may need.

7. Multi-purpose tool

A multi-purpose tool can come in handy in many situations. It should include items such as a knife, pliers, and a screwdriver.

8. Sanitation and personal hygiene items

During an emergency, it may be difficult to maintain good hygiene. That’s why it’s important to have sanitation and personal hygiene items in your kit. This should include items such as soap, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.

9. Copies of important documents

Make sure to have copies of important documents in your survival kit, such as insurance policies, identification, and contact information.

10. Cell phone with chargers

A cell phone can be a lifeline in an emergency. Make sure to have a fully charged cell phone and extra chargers in your kit.

11. Family and emergency contact information

Make sure to have contact information for your family and emergency contacts in your kit. This should include phone numbers and addresses.

12. Extra cash

In an emergency, ATMs may be inaccessible, and credit card processing may be down. Having some extra cash on hand can be helpful.

13. Emergency blanket

An emergency blanket can help keep you warm in cold conditions.

14. Map(s) of the area

Having a map of the area can help you navigate in an emergency. Make sure to keep your maps up-to-date.

15. Smaller bills of cash are recommended.

In an emergency, it may be difficult to make change. Having smaller bills of cash on hand can make transactions easier.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having a well-stocked survival kit can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. This list provides a comprehensive guide to the items that should be included in your kit. Make sure to check your survival kit regularly and replace any expired items.

FAQs

1. How often should I check my survival kit?
   You should check your survival kit at least twice a year and replace any expired items.

2. How much water should I have in my kit?
   The American Red Cross recommends having a gallon of water per person per day for a 3-day supply for evacuation and a 2-week supply for your home.

3. What should I do with important documents in my kit?
   Make sure to keep copies of important documents in your kit, such as insurance policies, identification, and contact information.

4. How much cash should I have in my kit?
   Having some extra cash on hand can be helpful in an emergency. Smaller bills of cash are recommended.

5. What should I do in an emergency if my cell phone dies?
   Make sure to have extra chargers in your kit, and consider having a backup battery or portable charger.