Create an emergency kit

Create an emergency kit that will keep you and your family safe and comfortable during a major power outage or natural disaster – and have it ready before disaster strikes. The following checklist will get you started. Make sure to include enough supplies to last at least three days for you, your family - and pets too.

Emergency kit checklist

1. Water for seven to 10 days (1 gallon per person, per day)
2. Food for seven to 10 days (non-perishable)
3. Cash (ATMs may not be working; small bills are best)
4. Flashlights
5. Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)
6. Extra batteries
7. First aid kit
8. Whistle to signal for help
9. Sturdy shoes, gloves
10. Shelter items (tent, tarp, rope)
11. Dust mask to help filter contaminated air (cotton t-shirts can work)
12. Wrench to turn off utilities, such as natural gas or water
13. Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation
14. Manual can opener
15. Multipurpose (A-B-C) fire extinguisher
16. Unique family needs (supplies for infants, pets; prescription and over-the-counter medications; emergency phone numbers, important documents)

Preparing multiple kits, for home, work and your vehicle, is a good idea.

Remember: When preparing for a major storm, earthquake or flood, a preparedness kit is most effective when you also have an emergency plan.

More kit ideas

• Ready.gov
• American Red Cross checklist