When an emergency strikes, you want to be ready. That's why it's important to create an emergency checklist and stockpile disaster supplies for your household. From hurricane preparedness to earthquakes and other disasters, having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference in keeping you safe and secure until help arrives. Create a checklist now of essential items such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid materials, warm blankets and any necessary medication so that you are ready when an emergency arises. Be sure to check your kit regularly to ensure that any expired items have been replaced. Take the time now to prepare for whatever may come - ensuring a safer tomorrow!
Assemble your emergency kit with all the essential items.
Start with a basic checklist
- one gallon of water per person for several days
- non-perishable food
- battery-powered radio and NOAA Weather Radio
- flashlight
- first aid kit
- extra batteries
- whistle to signal for help
- dust mask to filter contaminated air
- 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
Keep all these items in airtight plastic bags and store in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or duffel bag. Don’t forget to include a hurricane preparedness plan as part of your preparation for any emergency situation. Being prepared is key to keeping you and your family safe during an emergency. Make sure you are ready before disaster strikes.
Be sure to check off all the items on your emergency kit checklist. Check any electronics periodically to ensure they are functioning and in proper working order.
Since Spring of 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.
- Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
- Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler's checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:
- Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
- Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
- Replace expired items as needed.
- Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars.
- Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
- Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
- Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.