While food is the first thing we think of when planning for an emergency, there are a number of other necessities that we need to have on hand if we are isolated by power outages or road closures during a storm or other natural disaster. Don’t be huddled with your family with the power out before you think about the tools you will need to survive.

Medicine—Include a prepackaged first aid kit, or better yet assemble your own.  Include tape, gauze, Band-Aids, antibiotic cream, peroxide or isopropyl alcohol, aspirin or Tylenol, bug repellent, sunscreen, and antacids.  Also add a two week supply of every prescription drug for every member of your family. Include extra batteries for medical aids such as hearing aids or respiratory equipment.  Add extra supplies of disposable contact lenses with solution.  Save your outdated glasses and put them in the kit as an extra precaution. Don’t forget personal hygiene products. Include feminine products and incontinence supplies.  Put some toothpaste, extra toothbrushes and deodorant in the kit, as well as some liquid hand soap and antibacterial gel.  If water is in short supply, you may not be able to attend to personal hygiene on a regular basis.

Tools/batteries—Pack two or three heavy duty flashlights.  Have extra packages of batteries on hand. Keep extra cell phone batteries or solar powered battery chargers in the kit. Include a battery or solar powered radio and alarm clock.  Keep a set of candles, with holders and a package of butane lighters or matches.  Set up an emergency took kit that includes a hammer, screw driver, wrench, nail and saw. (You might need these to clear debris or repair damage.) Put a general use fire extinguisher and some outdoor extension cords (in case you are lucky and have electricity).  Add a can of spray paint in a bright color in case you need to indentify your home for emergency crews. And of course, make sure you have duct tape.

Cleaning supplies—Pack two or three boxes of extra strength trash bags. Include antiseptic cleaner, bleach, and dish soap.  Include a plastic drop cloth (or two). Or get a package of clear plastic disposable painter’s drop cloths.

Entertainment—Days waiting for power to return or for emergency crews to arrive can weigh heavy on a family, particularly when there are small children involved.  Use this time to get back to the basics with your kids.  Reading and playing games can help make the time go by.  Include a deck of playing cards and a supply of card games. Many popular board games how have playing card versions.  Shop the after holiday sales to refurbish your supply.  Include a supply of coloring and activity books if there are small children.  Make sure you have pen, pencils, crayons and a pad of paper.

Make sure you check your kit periodically to make sure that the first aid supplies and medicine are not out of date or that your batteries are in good shape.  Hopefully you will never have to use your storm kit.  But if an emergency does arise, you will be grateful for the time and effort you put into preparing it.