Emergency Preparedness Kit for the Home
Emergency preparedness kits are designed to be the basis for some of the supplies that you may need after a disaster or emergency. Part of being prepared means being equipped with the proper supplies to sustain your household for several days. Keep your supplies in an easy-to-carry kit or tote that you can use at home, or take with you in case you must evacuate.
Most items are inexpensive and easy to find. Heading to the store? Purchase an extra item or two to ensure your emergency kit stays well-supplied.
The following lists suggested items for a Basic Emergency Preparedness Kit:
- Water: 1 gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation; 2-week supply for home)
- Food: at least a 3-day supply of nonperishable food
- Ready-to-eat canned meats, soups, fruits, vegetables
- High energy foods (peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars, trail mix)
- Canned, bottled or boxed juices
- Comfort foods (cookies, hard candy, cereals, instant coffee, tea bags)
- Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio/NOAA Weather Radio
- Flashlight / Battery-Operated Lantern
- Extra Batteries
- Blankets or Sleeping Bags
- Cell Phone, Charger and Backup Battery
- Family and Emergency Contact Information
- First Aid Kit
- Prescription & Non-Prescription Medications (7-day supply), Medical Items
- Cloth Face Coverings/Masks (for everyone in the home ages 2 years and up)
- Sanitation and Paper Products
- Toilet Paper, Flushable Wipes
- Liquid Hand Soap, Bar Soap
- Hand Sanitizer
- Feminine Hygiene Supplies
- Paper Towels, Paper Plates, Plastic Ware, Garbage Bags
- Liquid Disinfectant, Disinfecting Wipes
- Household chlorine bleach
- Multi-Purpose Tool or Wrench and Pliers (to turn off utilities)
- Copies of Important Documents: list of medications/medical needs; proof of address; deed or lease to home; passports; birth certificates; insurance policies; photos of home items including serial numbers, if possible. Store in waterproof and/or fireproof file box.
- Extra Cash (preferably small bills and coins)
- Maps – local, state
- Special Items
- Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses
- Important family documents (store in a waterproof, portable container)
- Board games, books, playing cards (for entertainment)
- Supplies for individuals with special needs (babies, elderly or disabled persons)
- Family or workplace disaster plan
Rethink your supply kit at least once a year. Replace batteries, food and water every six months.
For additional information on Emergency/Disaster Preparedness:
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