I remember when I first got married, my husband Walt and I were more concerned with feathering our nest. But as the years went by, we realized we had to start thinking about protecting our family nest too. Since we got married in 1999, we've had 1 son, Cameron, and making sure we are all set with life insurance is more important than ever. We've been with Allstate for the past 12+ years and I've always been impressed with how quickly they respond to any questions or concerns. It's very easy to reach them via email, phone or through their web site.

Besides life insurance, it's important to have basic necessities stocked up. Recently, our country has endured some unusual weather events, such as an earthquake in Virginia and Hurricane Irene on the east coast. These unusual weather events (for that part of the country) are a good reminder that anything can happen.

Anyone who has followed this blog knows I love to stock up. But stocking up for a natural disaster is a little different.

Here are the supplies you should have on hand:

• Three-day supply of non-perishable food.
• Three-day supply of water - one gallon of water per person, per day.
• Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• First aid kit and manual.
• Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper).
• Matches and waterproof container.
• Whistle.
• Extra clothing.
• Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener.
• Photocopies of credit and identification cards.
• Cash and coins.
• Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries.
• Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers.
• Other items to meet your unique family needs.

Keep everything stored in a plastic tub with a lid. Also, keep it near the front or back door, whichever is your exit route.

And if you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat. Think about your clothing and bedding supplies. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including:

• Jacket or coat.
• Long pants.
• Long sleeve shirt.
• Sturdy shoes.
• Hat, mittens, and scarf.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket (per person).

Maintaining Your Disaster Supplies Kit

Just as important as putting your supplies together is maintaining them so they are safe to use when needed. Here are some tips to keep your supplies ready and in good condition:

• Keep canned foods in a dry place where the temperature is cool.
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers to protect from pests and to extend its shelf life.
• Throw out any canned good that becomes swollen, dented, or corroded.
• Use foods before they go bad, and replace them with fresh supplies.
• Change stored food and water supplies every six months. Be sure to write the date you store it on all containers.
• Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family needs change.
• Keep items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as an unused trashcan, camping backpack, or duffel bag.



I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Allstate blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.