Your emergency kit should contain items that enable you to provide comfort for a wide range of events, from everyday scrapes to life-threatening emergencies. When creating a complete disaster kit, you should pack the following emergency supplies in an easy-to-carry container or backpack:
At minimum, the American Red Cross recommends that you have the following items in your emergency kit:
- Water: One gallon per person, per day. A three-day supply is recommended for evacuation. A two-week supply is recommended if you stay in your home. Also, don't forget to provide for your pets.
- Non-perishable food: Items that are easy to open and prepare are preferable. A three-day supply is recommended for evacuation. A two-week supply is recommended if you stay in your home. And, don't forget to provide for your pets.
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications and medical items (Seven-day supply)
- Multi-purpose tool
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
- Cell phone with chargers
- Family and emergency contact information
- Extra cash
- Emergency blanket
- Map(s) of the area