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Emergency Supplies Kit

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days, so it’s important to be prepared. That means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Make sure your kit includes all the items on this checklist.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)

Food (at least a several-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

Additional Emergency Supplies

Masks, soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes

Prescription and OTC medications and vitamins

Pain relievers, anti-diarrheal drugs, antacids, laxatives

Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution

Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, creams

Pet food and extra water for your pet

Cash or traveler’s checks

Important documents (insurance policies, ID, bank records, etc. saved electronically or in a waterproof container)

Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

Change of clothing and sturdy shoes

Fire extinguisher

Matches in a waterproof container

Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

Disposable tableware, paper towels, utensils

Paper and pencil

Books, games, puzzles, activities for children

Download the Checklist PDF

We have a handy guide you can refer to any time for a succinct overview of the emergency kits we’ve covered here.

Get the “Be Prepared Before a Storm Strikes” PDF

STORM PREP PDF

Informational Videos

Keep Your Kit Handy & Maintained

FOOD STORAGE

Keep canned food in a cool, dry place. Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.

HOME KIT

Keep your primary kit in a designated place, have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly, and make sure all family members know its location.

UPDATES

Re-think your needs every year, update your kit as your family’s needs change, and replace expired items.

WORK & CAR KITS

Be prepared to shelter in place. Your work and car kits should include food, water, medications, and comfortable shoes in a “grab and go” case.

Shelter & Your Emergency Kits

Sheltering is appropriate when conditions require that you seek protection in your home, where you work, or other location when emergencies arise, such as during a tornado warning. This can mean: Stay-At-Home, Going to a Mass Care Shelter, or Sheltering in Place. Your emergency kits will come in handy in any of these situations.

Make a Plan