Build your emergency preparedness kit carefully and thoughtfully and be sure to include these seven must-haves for every kit. Don’t hesitate to include additional supplies that you may deem necessary. Be thorough and work together as a family to plan for any future disasters.

Seven Must-Haves in the Event of a Natural Disaster

Many of these items may seem like no-brainers, but if you forget them or allow them to expire, you will be left in dire straits very quickly following a catastrophic event.

• Food and water supplies: Plan to have one gallon per person per day on hand and plan for several days -- a week if possible. Food needs to be easy to prepare or ready to eat and should not perish. (Think canned goods.) Be sure to keep a can opener and any other utensils needed to eat in your kit as well. Formula and baby food are essential if you have a baby or toddler who requires this type of sustenance.

• Health and safety supplies: Stock an extra first aid kit and stow it with your emergency items. Make sure it’s stocked with items such as bandages, antiseptic cleaner, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, analgesics, pain relievers, tweezers and any other over-the-counter remedies you typically use in your household. If anyone takes prescriptions, keep a seven-day supply in the kit along, with any associated paperwork and necessary medical supplies, such as syringes for diabetics.

• Blankets: Keep emergency blankets wrapped in small, portable bundles so you can take them with you, should you need to relocate for a short or extended period of time. Keep them in a place where they will stay dry in the event of water leakage.

• Personal care items: Keep a stock of toothpaste, toothbrushes, soaps and any other desired personal items in the kit so that you can maintain personal hygiene if you’re relocated or your home is damaged or destroyed. Moist towelettes can be a temporary way to keep clean. If you have a baby or toddler, be sure to pack diapers and wipes.