Be sure to stock your emergency kit with items from the checklist below. After taking a look at the basic items, consider what unique needs your family may have, such as supplies, pets, or seniors. After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. 

When assembling your kit, store items in airtight bags and place your kit in one or two containers that are easy to carry. The following items are recommended for an emergency supply kit:

• Water- one gallon per person per day for at least three days (for drinking and sanitation).
• Food- at least a three day supply of non perishable food products.
• Battery powered or hand crank radio, and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alerts
• Flashlight
• First Aid Kit
• Extra Batteries
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust masks to filter contaminated air
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for sanitation
• A set of tools
• Can opener for food (Manual)
• Maps
• Cell phone with charger and battery backup

A checklist of recommended supplies is included here.

Additional Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your kit based on need:

• Prescription Medication
• Non-prescription medication (pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids, etc.)
• Glasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water
• Cash or traveler's checks
• Important family documents (Insurance policies, identification, bank account records, etc.)
• Sleeping bags or warm blankets for each person
• Complete change of clothing based on climate, and sturdy shoes
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches
• Feminine and personal hygiene products
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Maintaining the Kit

Be sure to maintain your kit so that it is ready when needed:

• Keep canned foods in a cool, dry environment
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers
• Replace expired goods
• Re-think your needs every year and update the kit as needed

Kit Storage

Because disaster strikes at random and we do not know when emergencies may occur, prepare supplies for home, work, and vehicles.

• Home: Keep the kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. All family members should know where the kit is.
• Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water, and other necessities like medicines, and comfortable walking shoes. Store your kit in a "grab and go" case.
• Vehicle: Keep an emergency supply kit in your car, in case you become stranded.