Stay prepared for storm season with 72-hour kit Published March 21, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Stephenie Wade 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Did you know in the Midwest in comparison with other states, Iowa ranks 6th in tornado occurrences, Illinois ranks 7th, and Missouri ranks 8th? The top five are Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, Florida, and Nebraska, in that order according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Illinois averages 35 and Missouri averages 30 tornadoes per year. Scott members can be ready for this year's tornado season is to prepare a 72-hour kit. A 72-hour kit is what it sounds like, a small kit of items that will help you manage on your own for 72 hours. Many people take the small things for granted and don't realize it till it's too late. Don't wait. The following items are recommended for inclusion in your basic 72 hour disaster supplies kit: · A three-day supply of non-perishable food suitable for your family's size · A three-day supply of water--one gallon of water per person, per day · Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries · Flashlight and extra batteries · First aid kit and manual · Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper) · Matches and a waterproof container · Whistle · Extra clothing · Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener · Photocopies of credit and identification cards · Cash and coins · Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries · Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers · Other items to meet your unique family needs Additional tips to be prepared can be found at www.beready.af.mil. Also, the Exchange has created a 72-hour kit that is on display this week.