Make an Emergency Kit
If you need to leave your home, an emergency kit will help you go as quickly as possible. Your kit should be in an accessible place, easy to carry and sturdy.
What to Include
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help 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
You should consider adding more to your kit based on your individual needs. Additional emergency supplies are listed at Ready.gov.
Where to Store it
Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for dorm/apartment, work and cars.
Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave quickly.
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.
In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.
Keeping it Fresh
After building your kit, remember to maintain it so it’s ready when you need it. Emergency kits should be updated every six months.
- Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
- Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal.
- Replace expired items as needed.
- Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your needs change.