Prepare

Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals during a disaster or crisis.

Make a Kit

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find, and any one of them could save your life. Headed to the store? Download a printable version to take with you. Once you take a look at the basic items, consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets, or seniors.

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Basic Disaster Supplies

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Manual can opener for food
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Money (cash, credit cards, checkbook)
Identification

Additional Emergency Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

Prescription medications (Make sure you have a week’s worth)
Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
Glasses and contact lens solution
Important family and medical documents that include:
- A list of family physicians and the relative or friend who should be notified if you are injured.
- A list of the style and serial numbers of medical devices such as pacemakers.
- Keep family records, medical records or other important documents in your disaster supply kit in watertight containers.
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
An extra set of car keys.
Extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen, medication, catheters, or other special equipment you might need.
Back up generator if needed, for life support purposes.
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
If you are elderly consider adding:
- Denture needs
- Hearing aid batteries
If you have an infant consider adding:
- Formula
- Diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream
- Bottles
If you have a pet consider adding:
- Extra food and water
- Collar with an ID tag
- Leashes or pet carrier