Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit

Everyone should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs. Listed below are some basic items that each emergency supply kit should include. However, it is important that everyone review this list and consider where they live and their unique needs in order to create an emergency supply kit that will meet these needs for their family. Consider having at least two emergency kits, one full kit at home and a smaller portable kit in your vehicle, at school, at work or other places you spend time.

Print a copy of this list to make it easier to use.

" Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
and a possible nine days.
" Food, at least a three to nine day supply of non-perishable food and a portable stove.

" Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

" Flashlight and 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 foods)

" Local maps

" Cell phone and chargers

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an
Emergency Supply Kit

" Prescriptions medications and glasses

" Infant formula and diapers

" Pet food and water for your pet

" Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container

" Cash or traveler's checks and change

" Emergency reference material, such as a first aid book

" Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person; consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate and rain gear.

" Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper, When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or 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
Candles!
" Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

" Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels

" Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children