Be Prepared

Family Emergency Supply Kit

In an emergency situation, such as a natural disaster, preparing items beforehand can help keep you and your family safe until you can get assistance.

Basic Kit

• Essential items needed for all situations – FOOD – WATER – CLOTHING.
  • Canned food: 3-5 days worth – don’t forget a non-electric can opener
  • Water to last 3-5 days -- about 1 gallon of water per person per day
  • Any medications needed by family members (e.g., heart or high blood pressure medication, insulin, contact lens supplies)
  • A first aid kit and first aid manual.
  • Extra clothing
• Other items to bring:
  • A battery-powered radio
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Cell phone with charger
  • Mess kits or paper dining products (e.g., cups, plates, napkins)
  • Personal hygiene supplies (e.g., soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, garbage bags, etc.)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Sleeping bags or extra blankets
  • Dust masks
  • Duct tape
  • Cash or traveler’s checks
• Additional items for infants:
  • Bottles, formula, drinking water
  • Diapers, ointments
  • Medications
• Special items for children:
  • A favorite toy or blanket
  • Colors and paper to help keep them busy while in the shelter
• Don’t forget items for pets.
• Place your kit in a central location.
  • Let all of your family know where it is.
  • Check the contents regularly to ensure fresh and complete supplies.
• Gather important family documents:
  • Will, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks, bonds
  • Passports, social security cards
  • Immunization records
  • Bank account numbers
  • Credit card account numbers and companies
  • Inventory of valuable household goods
  • Important telephone numbers
  • Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates, social security numbers)
  • Keep these documents in a waterproof, fireproof, portable container.

Seasonal Items

• Spring/Summer
  • Mosquito protection: Insect repellant containing DEET or Picaridin, or long sleeved and long-legged clothing
  • Sunscreen, wide brim hat
• Winter
  • Extra blankets
  • Hats, gloves, scarves
  • Shovel, sand or cat litter

Emergency Kit for Your Car

• In some situations, you may be away from home and in your car.
  • A full gas tank full in case of emergency
  • High energy foods (e.g., peanut butter, crackers, granola bars, trail mix) and water
  • Flares, booster cables, tools, maps
  • First aid kit, blankets
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Seasonal items: sunscreen, shovels