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Emergency Preparedness: Emergency Kits
A well-prepared emergency kit is essential during an unexpected situation like power outages, natural disasters, or other emergencies. Having the right supplies on hand can make the difference when keeping you and your family safe. Here’s a list of the most important items to include when building a comprehensive emergency kit for your home:
Start with basic survival essentials:
- Water – At least two liters per person, per day, for three days; along with additional water for hygiene and food preparation. And pets, too!
- Non-perishable food – Canned goods, protein bars, and dried fruits.
- Manual can opener – Essential for opening canned food if the power is out.
Include safety and first aid supplies:
- First aid kit – Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
- Flashlights and extra batteries – Wind up flashlights are a great option that don’t require batteries.
- Multipurpose tool – A Swiss army knife or similar tool can be useful for repairs and opening packages.
For communication and power, make sure you have:
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio – To receive local emergency updates.
- Portable phone charger – Keep an extra power bank charged and ready.
Other helpful items include:
- Important items and documents – Copies of IDs, insurance, emergency contacts and emergency plan in a waterproof bag. Spare keys for home and vehicles.
- Cash – ATMs may not be working during an emergency.
- Clothing and Bedding – A change of clothes and sturdy footwear for each person, along with sleeping bags or warm blankets.
- Personal Hygiene Items – Toiletries, hand sanitizer, and sanitation supplies like garbage bags.
- Tools and Supplies – Basic tools (e.g., hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers), candles and matches, a digital waterproof watch and a whistle to signal for help.
- Special Needs Items – Supplies for infants (formula, diapers), pets (food, water), and any necessary medical equipment.
Your emergency kit should be assembled in a sturdy, easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or suitcase with wheels or a plastic tote with a lid and be stored in an accessible location known to all household members, such as a front hall closet.