Infant Formula and Baby Food (if needed)

For families with infants, a dedicated supply of infant formula and baby food is not just important—it's absolutely critical. In an emergency, you cannot assume you will have access to a store or the clean water and power needed to prepare food. An infant's nutritional needs are specific and urgent, and a disruption to their feeding schedule can have serious health consequences. Your 72-hour kit must contain everything needed to keep your baby fed and healthy, independent of any outside resources.

Your kit should include a multi-day supply of ready-to-feed formula. This is the ideal choice for emergencies as it requires no mixing and eliminates the risk of using contaminated water. If you must use powdered formula, you must also have a dedicated supply of purified or bottled water specifically for mixing. Include enough bottles, nipples, and a method for sterilization, such as sanitizing tablets or a portable bottle sterilizer, along with soap and a bottle brush. For babies who have started solids, pack a variety of jarred baby food or food pouches. Choose items your baby is familiar with. Remember to pack spoons, bowls, and bibs. Just like your other supplies, check expiration dates regularly and rotate these items to ensure they are always fresh and safe.

Having these items pre-packed is essential for both shelter-in-place and evacuation scenarios. An evacuation order can come suddenly, and you won't have time to search for and pack these critical supplies. This dedicated supply ensures your baby's needs are met, reducing immense stress and allowing you to focus on the safety of the entire family. This isn't just about food; it's about maintaining the health and well-being of the most vulnerable member of your family, which is the highest priority in any emergency plan.