Returning Home After a Disaster: Supply List

Lisa Norman, Extension Assistant

The Texas A&M University System

Cleaning up after a disaster can be a long and difficult task. Everything that has been touched by floodwater is considered contaminated and should either be thrown out or disinfected. The following list of items can be helpful to have on hand before returning home.

1. Water: Three-day supply of bottled water. Pack 1 gallon for each person per day. Do not use well water until it has been tested by your local health department or another professional.
2. First aid kit: Include two pairs of sterile gloves, gauze, soap, antibiotic wipes and ointment, burn ointment, adhesive bandages, aspirin, a thermometer, first aid booklet and sunscreen, SPF 30.
3. Prescription medications: Include heart and high blood pressure medicines, insulin and other drugs prescribed by your doctor.
4. Hand sanitizer: Any type of alcohol based hand sanitizer will work.
5. Basic tool kit: Include a screw driver, hacksaw, axe, wrench, hammer and pliers.
6. Personal hygiene items: Include a washcloth, bath towel, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste.
7. Sturdy shoes: To avoid injury from debris, use closed-toe shoes.
8. Insect repellent

Cleaning supplies

1. 5-gallon bucket with lid
2. Bleach, 82 ounces
3. 5 scouring pads
4. 7 sponges
5. 1 scrub brush
6. 18 cleaning towels
7. Liquid laundry detergent, 50 ounces
8. Household cleaner, 12- to 16-ounce bottle
9. Disinfectant dish soap, 16- to 28-ounce bottle
10. 50 clothes pins
11. Clothes line, 100 feet
12. 5 masks, N-95 rating
13. 2 pairs of latex gloves
14. 1 pair of work gloves
15. 24-bag roll of heavy-duty trash bags, 33- to 45-gallon
16. Air freshener, 8- or 9-ounce can