Assemble the kit

When assembling your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put the kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers like plastic bins or a duffel bag. A basic emergency supply kit could include the following items:

• Water (one gallon/person/day for several days)
• Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishables)
• 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
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (if needed to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (items for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Items For Consideration

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
• Prescription medications. An emergency can make it difficult for you to refill prescriptions 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 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.
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

Maintenance

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.
• Update your kit each year as your family’s needs change.

Storing Your Kit

Since you don’t know where you’ll 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. It’s best to be prepared during storm season.