Prepare A Kit

Prepare a Kit

Prepare a kit of emergency supplies that will allow you and your family to survive comfortably for at least three days in the event an emergency happens. Think about items that you might need if you had to stay in the same place for up to three days. The kit should include basic items like water, food, battery-powered radio, flashlights and a first aid kit.

Water & Food

  • Keep a three-day supply of water on hand ­ a gallon of water per person per day ­ for drinking and sanitation. Use bottled water or store water tightly in clean plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. 
  • Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water.
  • Include food items like canned meats, fruits, juices, soups and vegetables; protein bars; peanut butter; dried fruit; nuts; staples; non-perishable, pasteurized milk; and comfort/stress foods (cookies, hard candy, etc). You might also want to include vitamins.
  • Pack a manual can opener.
  • Include: paper plates, cups, napkins and towels, and plastic eating utensils.

First Aid

Most households have a first aid kit on hand. If you do not, you may want to assemble one. Include: 

  • Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes
  • Antibiotic ointment and burn ointment to prevent infection
  • Cleansing agent/soap, antibiotic towelettes
  • Eye wash solution
  • Latex or other sterile gloves
  • Non-prescription drugs like pain relievers, antacids, laxatives, etc.
  • Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies;
  • Prescription medications you take every day, such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers (rotate medicines to account for expiration dates)
  • Scissors and tweezers
  • Sterile dressings
  • Thermometer 

Additional Items for Your Kit

  • Baby or children's items, such as diapers and formula
  • Battery-operated flashlights (Do not use candles or open flame for emergency lighting)
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Cash (If the power is out, ATMs may not be working. It may also be a good idea to have some small bills on hand, as merchants may not be able to make change.)
  • Cell phone (with a charger for the car)
  • Extra batteries
  • Garbage bags
  • Glow stick
  • Identification for each family member
  • Important family documents
  • Items for the elderly if needed
  • Moist towelettes
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape
  • Two-way radio or walkie-talkies