CDC suggests what to put in disaster kit

ATLANTA, May 30 (UPI) -- U.S. health officials say all homes should have a disaster kit in the advent of a natural or man-made disaster, or terrorist attack.

Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say disaster can strike at any time and residents may not have access to food, water or electricity for some time.

The CDC suggests considering maintaining a supply of canned goods, dry mixes and other cooking staples for a two-week period, even though it is unlikely an emergency would cut off food supplies for that long.

"Having an ample supply of clean water is a top priority, normally active person needs to drink at least 2 quarts of water each day and one-half gallon of water is needed for food preparation and hygiene," the CDC says in a statement. "Store at least a three-day supply and consider storing a two-week supply of water for each member of your family. If you are unable to store this much, store as much as you can."

The CDC suggests assembling the following items for home, the office, at school and/or in a vehicle:

-- Flashlight, batteries and battery powered or hand crank radio, NOAA Weather Radio, if possible.

-- First aid kit.

-- Seven-say supply of medications and medical items.

-- Multi­purpose tool.

-- Sanitation and personal hygiene items.

-- Copies of personal documents, medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, copies of deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies.

-- Cellphone with chargers.

-- Family and emergency contact information.

-- Extra cash.

-- Emergency blanket.

-- Maps of the area.