When putting together your emergency food supplies:

• Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
• Choose foods your family will eat.
• Remember any special dietary needs.
• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.
• Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

Disasters can take a toll on your mental, emotional, and physical health. It’s important to the extent possible to eat a healthy diet not only to cope with the stress from the disaster, but also maintain your strength. Some food items could include:

• Protein or fruit bars;
• Nuts;
• Crackers;
• Peanut butter; and
• Dried fruit.

These types of foods are listed because they require minimal food preparation and no cooking. 

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils.

Check out the America’s PrepareAthon! website on how to assemble and update your emergency supplies, including food, medication, and other items.