Emergency Kit
This list was compiled from the web page of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival:
- fresh water
- food
- clean air
- warmth
Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Kit:
- Water
One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food
At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Radio
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
- Flashlight
Be sure to include extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask
To help filter contaminated air and 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
- Can opener for food
(if kit contains canned food)
- Local maps
Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Infant formula
- Diapers
- Pet food
- Extra water for your pet
- Important family documents
For example, copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
- Cash or traveler's checks and change
- Emergency reference material
For example, first aid book or information from government readiness web site
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.
Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Complete change of clothing
Include a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper
When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. In an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using
16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
- Fire Extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies
- Personal hygiene items
For example, toothpaste, toothbrush, and hand soap
- Mess kits
For example, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils, and paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children
Mobile Evacuation Kit
If it is necessary to evacuate the home, consider having a kit that is moble so that it can be carried from the home either in backpacks for walking
evacuations or a bagged kit that can be loaded into a car. In addition, placing a basic emergency kit into each vehicle is a good idea.
Meeting Plans
In the event an emergency occurs when family members are not in the home, it is recommended that each member know where to go when an emergency
occurs. The family should also decide where to meet if going home is not an option.