What type of food do you need in a storm preparation kit?

I am avid when it comes to preparing for storms. Having lived in Oklahoma for so long, and being so close to areas devastated by Tornadoes, I saw first hand how people struggled after a storm. In the winter, we’d occasionally get a blizzard and be without power as well, once for over a week, and with three children, I don’t want to be caught unprepared.

Now that we’ve moved to New England, winter weather isn’t such a big deal, but when the hurricane came through a few months ago, I was ready. I’d stocked up on bottled water, medications, premium food – such as canned goods, a manual can opener, made sure all of the laundry was done and blankets were accessible.

Have you given any thought to what type of food to buy? I have people ask me from time to time, “What type of food do you need in a storm preparation kit?” Here are some suggestions:

• Bottled Water. How much? It is generally suggested 1 gallon per person, per day. You also want to fill up sinks and tubs, as necessary. Why? Some of you may be on well water, as we are, or be at risk for burst pipes, etc from your city. When we lose power, the water pump doesn’t work, so we lose access to our water. We need water in the tub to flush toilets, etc. in addition to drinking water, washing hands, brushing teeth, etc.
• Canned goods. Be sure you have a working manual can opener or cans with tabs. It won’t do you any good to have canned goods if you can’t open the cans 🙂
• Granola bars, power bars, protein bars, etc.
• Cereal – can use up milk you have on hand, then eat dry if necessary
• Peanut Butter & Jelly for sandwiches
• Bread
• Crackers
• Fruits
• Veggies – celery, carrots, broccoli, etc
• Baby Food or Formula for babies – make sure to allow extra bottles of water or buy pre-mixed for emergencies.