Y2K supplies: A preparedness checklist

December 9, 1999

Web posted at: 5:31 p.m. EST (0131 GMT)

(CNN) -- Will the aftermath of Y2K be waterless faucets, empty grocery shelves or cash registers that won't ring? It's unlikely, say government and business experts, who insist the food supply won't be interrupted by the computer bug.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced it is confident the nation's food supply is secure and it expects no shortages.

"We anticipate plenty of groceries on the shelf for Y2K and hereafter," said Brian Sansoni of the Grocery Manufacturers of America.

He said the Y2K bug problem has been an issue with member companies for the past couple of years, and suppliers, retailers, ordering systems and distribution routes are ready.

The most pressing concern, Sansoni said, is that consumers will overbuy products in preparation.

He said consumers should just think of the situation as a long holiday weekend -- they should have just a little extra food on hand.

Many people have an extra supply of food in their homes any day of the year, and most supermarkets consistently have a 60-day inventory in their stores and local distribution centers.

Leslie Credit, spokeswoman for the American Red Cross, says the organization does not expect food shortages, but it still recommends households have an emergency kit on standby for any possible disasters that could happen at any time of the year, including hurricanes, tornadoes or winter storms.

The Red Cross recommends keeping supplies such as food and water in duffel bags, large plastic containers or bins that can be transported easily if one leaves home.

You don't have to spend a lot of money. Bottle water from your own faucet in plastic soda bottles, and gather canned goods you already have in the pantry.

Store foods you like to eat and wouldn't mind opening after the new year. Canned or dried food keeps well, but switch out non-perishable food about every six months to keep your disaster kit fresh.

Credit recommends buying supplies or products from names you trust. Avoid suppliers or stores that might be taking advantage of consumers' fears.

After all, she said, any disruption in service would be short-lived.

Organize a preparedness kit

Water

Buy bottled water or bottle your own from the faucet. Use plastic or soft containers, not glass. Store enough for a gallon of water per person for three days: half a gallon for drinking, and half a gallon for cleaning and food preparation.

Food

Keep a three-day supply of food per person. Collect food that is non-perishable, can be opened easily and needs no cooking or additional water. As for camp food, choose containers that are lightweight and packable.

Click here for an expanded printable preparedness list

Suggestions: Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables Food for infants Canned juices Comfort foods Staples (salt, sugar, spices, etc.) Powdered milk/formula High-energy foods Non-electric can opener Vitamins

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Medicines/First Aid Kit

It always a good idea to have a first aid kit in your home and car. For your emergency kit, pack common medicines for simple ailments.

Suggestions: Aspirin or other over-the-counter pain relievers Bandages Anti-diarrhea medication Cleansing agents, soap Syrup of ipecac(to induce vomiting

as advised by the Poison Control Center) Tweezers Laxative Antiseptic Thermometer

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Other

Don't forget non-food supplies for comfort and safety. Bedding, blankets, clothes, tools and a flashlight with batteries are good to have ready.

Suggestions: Cash Traveler's checks Whistle Map of local area Disposable plates/utensils Personal hygiene supplies Battery-operated radio Change of clothing/shoes Extra batteries Rain gear Matches Blankets Compass Copies of medicine prescriptions Paper and pencil/pen Important financial and family documents

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Source: American Red Cross