by Tammy Sandeen

Created on: September 29, 2009

Are you a caregiver? Do you look out for your elderly parents, special needs kids, or have pets? No matter who you are taking care of there will be emergencies and you need to be prepared. However when there are special circumstances you have to take them into consideration when planning for an emergency.

When you are setting up your emergency kit, you have to think of the normal items. Set your kit up with paper eating products, a can opener, and cooking supplies. You will need extra blankets, flashlights, and batteries. Of course, you will need extra cash, fuel containers, and tools.

You should include enough food and bottled water to last three to seven days. Usually you would think of a gallon of water per person per day, but if you are the caregiver to someone with special circumstances, you may want to increase the amount to a gallon and a half or more. Do not forget food and water for your pets too.

If any one in the family has a special dietary need make sure there is an extra supply in case a shelter does not have it. Is someone a diabetic? Remember that when choosing your foods. You may want to include written information if it is an allergy so that if you aren't there to give the information it can still be known.

If you are preparing with a baby in mind then you need to include their supplies. You will need diapers, age appropriate food, ready to use formula, and extra bottle supplies even for a breast-fed child. It would be helpful to double the amount of emergency clothes you include for them.

Have kids? You should include games, books, and crayons to keep them busy. Snacks are always important when you have kids but more so when you are waiting for power to come back on. They may also have hand held toys so include some extra batteries in the appropriate sizes.

Do the kids have special needs? Include the necessary supplies for their needs in your kit. Do they require special weighted blankets for comfort? Have a spare in case the one that is normally used is lost or damaged. If they have special medical needs then make sure there is written records in your kit. This is true for the elderly or medically fragile also.

Include a water resistant container for all the prescriptions you are including in the kit. Again, include written information about who takes what, how often, and the dosage. Mark each prescription bottle clearly to each person.

Pets will need shot records, leashes, and carriers. They should have tags in case they are separated from you. Try to pack a few extra treats in with their water and food. They may also need a toy or two to see them through the rough days.

Think of whom you are caring for and know that their needs will only increase in a crisis. Pack things to see everyone through but pay special attention to the details of those special members of your family.

Learn more about this author, Tammy Sandeen.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.