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 several days. An emergency supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
We’ve compiled a list of the most important items to help you get started on building your own kit!
Basic Needs
- Water: one gallon per person, per day
- Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare
- Manual can opener
- Mess kit
- Matches in waterproof container
- Flashlight (one per person is best)
- Hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries
- Multi-purpose tool
- Toilet paper and tissues
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above)
- Soap and hand sanitizer
- Cleaning supplies and disinfectants
- First aid kit
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers
- Extra cash
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Garbage bags
- Extra clothes and sturdy shoes
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Cell phone with chargers and backup battery
- Family and emergency contact information
- Copies of personal documents (i.e. ID/passport)
- Map(s) of the area
Items Based on Your Needs:
- Prescription medications
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
- Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
- Extra set of car and house keys
- Fire extinguisher
- Two-way radios
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, or other activities
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should my kit last?
Three days is a good starting point. Once you have a three days’ supply, try to build up to a full week.
How should I store my kit?
Store items in airtight plastic bags and place in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins. Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
Where should I store my kit?
Since you don’t know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars. Kits designed for sudden events, like earthquakes, should be placed in the area you’d go in case of such an emergency. If your home is at risk of flooding, store your kit on a high shelf. For other emergencies, just keep it in an easily accessible spot. If possible, store your kit in a climate-controlled environment.
