Build Your Disaster Supplies Kits

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, the American Red Cross and Ready.gov recommend preparing supplies for your home, workplaces and cars. Assemble supplies you might need for an evacuation in easy-to-carry containers, such as a backpack or duffel bag. Replace expired items as needed.

Basic necessities

• A supply of water (one gallon per person per day). Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Identify the storage date and replace every six months.
• A supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food and a non-electric can opener.
• A change of clothing and sturdy shoes.
• An extra set of house and car keys
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Cell phone with chargers
• Emergency blankets
• Extra batteries
• Flashlight
• Multipurpose tool
• Rain gear
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items (toothbrush and paste, deodorant, comb, etc.)
• Whistle

Medical supplies

• A basic first aid kit
• First aid guide
• Prescription medications (7-day supply)
• Extra aids such as glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids, canes, syringes, etc.

Documents and money

• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Family and emergency contact information
• A list of family physicians
• Extra cash and credit cards
• Map of the area

Special needs

Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)

Games and comfort items for children

Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)

Disaster supplies to consider for shelter-in-place

• Candles
• Duct tape
• Hand sanitizer
• Household liquid bleach
• Lantern
• Lights sticks/snap lights
• Matches
• Moist towelettes
• N95 or surgical masks
• Nitrile gloves
• Pencil/pen and notepad
• Plastic sheeting
• Portable toilet or bucket
• Scissors
• Sleeping bags and blankets
• Solar power kit
• Toilet paper
• Tools (wrench, hammer, screwdriver, etc.)
• Towels
• Tube tent
• Water purification method
• Work gloves