Very few natural calamities can bring more desolation and waste than floods, which have the capability of cutting off your food and water supply, and deprive you of shelter and electricity. Floods occur in many areas of the country and if you live in a flood-prone area, you have to protect your household by preparing a well-supplied flood survival kit.

Food and water supply

A supply of clean potable water is one of the vital things to have on hand. The average person consumes about four gallons of water each day and so you should lay aside a two-day water supply for every member of your household. Store your clean water in containers purchased in stores or in milk jugs. Use plastic containers with tight screw-on caps. Pop-top caps come loose and can be easily contaminated.

You will also need an abundant supply of food which include various canned and dry goods. However, don't make your kit too backbreaking to carry. Don't forget to pack a lot of cereals as they are light and provide much-needed energy. Pack some candies and chocolate bars as additional energy sources. Remember to bring a can opener.

Stack up on food items that don't spoil for a while and are packed in vacuum or air tight containers. Forget about foods that spoil overnight as you have to discard them the following day.

Other important components

Keep a portable battery-operated radio or mini-TV in your kit, and bring along lots of fresh replacement batteries. They will come in handy to be informed of the latest news and updates. Include a flashlight, also with extra fresh batteries and a spare bulb. Be ready also with candles and waterproof matches.

You probably have a first-aid kit in your home but it is very important to have a well-stocked version included in your flood survival kit. Your first-aid kit should include antipyretics, cough and cold medication, antiseptic solution, water-purifying pills, bandages, anti-diarrheal medication, and antibiotic capsules.

The kit should contain daily supplies of disposable plates, napkins, cups, utensils and aluminum foil. Bear in mind that garbage collection may not be readily available during times of emergency. There may not be clean water supply to bathe in or wash dishes with.

Make your flood survival kit portable and easy to carry. Store it in a watertight container that can be transported easily or you can pack it in several containers which can be carried by adult members of the household. This way, carrying the kit will not be saddled to just one person.

Bring special medications and hygiene products

Your kit will not be complete without sanitary hygiene products such as soaps, toilet tissues, toothpaste, deodorant, and feminine napkins. Since sewage problems might arise, waste should be disposed in trash bags inside plastic containers with airtight covers. At this point, be careful how you dispose your waste to avoid outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Take into consideration diapers and milk formulas if there is an infant in the family. Also be prepared with medication and special diets for person suffering from diabetes, heart disease, and such. The needs of the aged should also be attended to.

Don't forget to pack dry warm clothing and rain gears in your flood survival kit.