Build an Emergency Kit
After an emergency, you may not be able to receive immediate help. Build a kit with the essentials your family and pets will need if you must shelter in place or evacuate.
- Water (one gallon per person/pet for several days)
- Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered radio
- NOAA Weather Radio
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Important medications
- Whistle to signal for help
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with charger or solar charger
- Cash or traveler’s checks and change
- Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
- Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler's checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children