Storms, power cuts, floods, and other emergencies can arrive with little warning. Having a ready-made kit at home means you can stay safe and comfortable for a few days if services are interrupted. Here is a simple checklist to help you build one.
Water and Food
Water is the top priority. Emergency planning agencies such as Ready.gov recommend storing at least one gallon of water per person per day, for several days. Add non-perishable food that needs little or no cooking, such as canned beans, tuna, peanut butter, crackers, dried fruit, and energy bars. Include a manual can opener, and pack extra for babies, older family members, and pets.
First Aid and Medicines
A well-stocked first aid kit should include:
- Adhesive bandages, gauze, and medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- Pain relievers and any over-the-counter medicines your family uses
- Tweezers, scissors, and disposable gloves
- A supply of prescription medicines, if your doctor and pharmacy allow
Check expiry dates regularly and replace anything out of date.
Light, Power, and Communication
Pack flashlights and extra batteries rather than relying on candles, which carry a fire risk. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio keeps you informed when the internet is down, and a fully charged power bank keeps your phone running. Add a whistle to signal for help and a printed list of emergency phone numbers.
Documents, Cash, and Tools
Keep copies of important papers, such as identification, insurance policies, and medical information, in a waterproof bag. Store some cash in small bills, because card machines and ATMs may not work during an outage. Useful tools include a multi-tool, duct tape, a blanket, and dust masks. Pack hygiene items like wet wipes, garbage bags, and basic toiletries too.
Think About Babies, Pets, and Older Family Members
Every household has different needs. Families with infants should add formula, diapers, wipes, and baby food. Pet owners need food, water, leashes, and copies of vaccination records. Older family members may need extra medicines, spare eyeglasses, hearing aid batteries, or mobility aids. Write down each person’s needs and check the list against your kit.
Plan for Different Types of Emergencies
A kit for staying home during a storm is different from a grab-and-go bag for evacuation. Consider keeping a lighter backpack by the door with water, snacks, a flashlight, a charger, copies of documents, and a change of clothes. Know your local risks, whether floods, earthquakes, or heat waves, and discuss an escape route and a meeting point with everyone at home.
Do Not Forget Comfort Items
Pack a change of clothes, sturdy shoes, and blankets or sleeping bags for each person. A few books, games, or cards help children stay calm when the power is out. Familiar comforts keep spirits up and make a stressful situation easier to handle.
Store and Maintain Your Kit
Keep everything in a sturdy container in an easy-to-reach place, and make sure every family member knows where it is. Review the kit every six months. Swap out food and water before they expire, and update the contents when your family changes, such as when a baby is born or you adopt a pet.
A little preparation now can bring real peace of mind later.
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