Prepare an Emergency Kit

All Americans should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if a major emergency or disaster occurs. Below is a list of some basic items that every emergency supply kit should include. However, it is important that individuals review this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of their family in order to customize an emergency supply kit that will meet their special circumstances.

Individuals should also consider having several emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places where they spend time. Also prepare a Household Emergency Plan for your family.

Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit now before an emergency or disaster hits.  You may wish to include:

  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid kit, and first aid manual and supply of prescription medicines 
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio or television with NOAA Weather Radio feature
  • Spare batteries
  • Candles and matches or lighters (store matches and lighters in a waterproof container)
  • Drinking/cooking water--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 - dehydrated meals, canned goods such as soups, a manual can opener
  • Moist towelettes, toilet paper, tissues, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
  • Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and heavy duty shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate. Be sure to include rain and cold weather gear
  • Camping equipment such as sleeping bags, camp stoves, portable lamps or lanterns and extra f
  • Disposable plates, cup, utensils, and paper towels.
  • Portable heater (oil or LP gas) plus extra fuel
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
  • Basic tool kit - wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, hammer, hatchet
  • Local maps

Additional items to consider adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

  • Cell phone and car charger and a current telephone number list of emergency contacts.
  • Eye glasses and contacts.
  • Infant formula and diapers.
  • Pet food, leashes, and extra water for your pet.
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, passports, other identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
  • Cash and change, traveler's checks.  Information from http://www.ready.gov/
  • Consider additional clothing and bedding - especially if you live in a cold-weather climate.
  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – mix 9 parts water to 1 part bleach to make a medicinal disinfectant. In an emergency, you can treat drinking water with 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Paper and pencil, books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.
  • Personal hygiene items, feminine supplies, diapers, and health needs
  • Child Emergency Kit

Cell Phones, battery powered radios and extra batteries, as well as important family documents should be easily accessible for your kit. Make sure copies of important papers are stored in waterproof containers. Click here for your community and state emergency contact information.

Remember every emergency supply kit is unique to you and your family and should be created with your special needs in mind. To prepare, plan, and stay informed, visit www.ready.gov

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