Emergency Bag List Essentials for Natural Disasters

When disaster strikes, having an emergency bag ready can mean the difference between safety and grave danger.

This comprehensive guide details everything you need in your emergency kit, from food and water to navigation tools and hygiene essentials.

You'll get checklists for 72-hour and 14-day bags, learn how to customize for specific risks like hurricanes and earthquakes, and discover must-have items to handle medical needs, communication, shelter, and more.

Preparing Your Emergency Survival Kit

Having a well-stocked emergency bag tailored for natural disasters is crucial to being prepared when an emergency strikes. Such a "go bag" allows you to evacuate quickly and have the essential supplies you need to survive for at least 72 hours. This article will cover key items to include in your emergency kit, with a focus on preparing for scenarios like hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and storms.

Understanding Natural Disaster Preparedness

When a natural disaster occurs, normal services and supplies can be cut off, so having your own stockpile is vital. Experts recommend preparing emergency supply kits with enough food, water, medicine, and other gear to last each person at least 3 days. Customizing your kit to the types of natural disasters likely in your region can help ensure you have what you specifically need. For example, those in hurricane zones require weatherproof and waterproof gear.

Emergency Bag List: Ensuring Your Safety

Experts like the CDC, Red Cross, and FEMA provide emergency supply checklists of basic items everyone should have:

Water - 1 gallon per person per day
Food - non-perishable, high-calorie items
Medicine - both prescription and over-the-counter
Tools - can opener, duct tape, matches, etc.
Sanitation - soap, toilet paper, feminine products
Clothing - weather appropriate outfits, sturdy shoes
Safety - whistles, glow sticks, masks, emergency blankets

Go through the checklists and ensure you have these vital supplies secured in a bag for easy transport during an evacuation.

Customizing Your Kit for Unique Needs

It's important to assess if anyone in your family has additional needs and customize your kit accordingly. For example, include pet food, baby formula, and senior medical supplies as relevant. Those with disabilities may require extra medication, mobility aids, or communication devices. Tailoring your emergency bag is vital so everyone avoids injury and stays safe in a crisis.

Having a well-packed "go bag" with your unique needs represented lets you rapidly evacuate in a natural disaster while having confidence you can survive until help arrives. Use recommended checklists to guide you, but customize further based on your situation. Your emergency survival kit could save your life.

What should I pack in my emergency bag?

When preparing an emergency bag, having the right supplies can make all the difference in an emergency situation. Here are some of the most essential items to include:

Water and Food

Having bottled water and non-perishable food is critical. Aim to pack enough water and food for at least 3 days. Some good options include:

Bottled water
Granola bars
Canned goods like beans, soup, vegetables
Peanut butter
Dried fruits and nuts

First Aid Supplies

A first aid kit can help treat injuries and ailments. Be sure to include bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain medication, latex gloves, scissors, and other basic medical supplies.

Tools and Safety Gear

Equipment like flashlights, batteries, matches, toilet paper, tissues, and garbage bags will help meet basic needs. Face masks, hand sanitizer, and cleaning wipes are also useful for health safety. Pack a manual can opener, multi-tool, duct tape, and a pocket knife too.

Unique Needs

Consider the unique needs of your family like infants, elderly, pets, or those with medical conditions. Pack diapers, pet food, a week’s supply of medication, and other specialized gear as needed.

Having the right emergency bag supplies on hand will give you confidence to handle unexpected crisis events. Prioritize water, food, first aid, tools, and items for health and sanitation when packing your bag.

What are 10 items you need for an emergency kit?

An emergency kit should contain basic supplies to help you survive for at least 3 days if a disaster strikes. Here are 10 essential items every emergency bag should include:

Water - 1 gallon per person, per day for at least 3 days. Water bottles or collapsible containers work well.
Non-perishable food - Pack high-calorie foods like granola bars, nuts, canned goods, and dried fruits. Choose items that don't require refrigeration or preparation.
First aid kit - Include bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain medication, latex gloves, etc. Know basic first aid techniques.
Medications - If you take prescription meds, pack a 3-7 day supply. Don't forget other OTC meds you may need.
Radio + batteries - Choose a hand crank or battery-powered weather radio to receive emergency alerts and updates. Stock extra batteries.
Flashlight - Pack 1-2 durable, waterproof LED flashlights plus extra batteries. Consider headlamps too.
Multi-tool or pocket knife - Choose one with pliers, screwdrivers, bottle opener, and other functions. Useful for repairs and survival tasks.
Emergency blanket - Lightweight mylar blankets retain 80% of body heat to prevent hypothermia.
Whistle - Useful for signaling rescuers if trapped or lost. Attach to your bag or clothing.
Dust mask - Protect yourself from dust particles and smoke in the air after disasters. Essential safety item.

Follow FEMA's recommendations when assembling your emergency kit. Customize based on your family's unique needs, adding any necessary medications, documents, tools and gear. Check and refresh your kit every 6 months.

What is in a 72 hour emergency kit list?

An emergency kit tailored for 72 hours should contain the essential items to survive for 3 days if access to food, water, and electricity is disrupted. Here is a comprehensive checklist of what to include:

Food and Water

Having enough food and water is critical in an emergency kit. Experts recommend the following:

Water - 1 gallon (4 liters) per person per day for at least 3 days
Non-perishable food items - Canned goods, energy bars, dried foods (beef jerky, fruits, nuts), peanut butter, crackers
Special needs - Baby formula, pet food

Tools and Supplies

Equip your emergency kit with these tools and supplies:

First aid kit - Bandages, gauze, medicines, etc.
Flashlights + extra batteries
Radio - Emergency/weather radio with batteries
Multi-tool - Can opener, knife, pliers, screwdrivers
Garbage bags
Duct tape
Matches/lighter in waterproof container
Paper plates, cups, utensils

Clothing and Bedding

Include these clothing and bedding items:

Extra clothes - Shirts, pants, underwear, socks
Sturdy shoes/boots
Sleeping bags/blankets
Rain poncho

Personal Items

Don't forget personal necessities:

Prescription medications
Eyeglasses
Hygiene items - Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap
Copies of important documents in waterproof bag
Extra cash

Following this comprehensive 72 hour emergency kit list ensures you have the essentials to safely endure a 3 day emergency scenario. Customize based on your family's unique needs.

What goes in an emergency service pack?

When preparing an emergency kit for natural disasters, having the essential gear and supplies can make all the difference. Here's a quick list of 10 must-have items to include:

Flashlight - A flashlight with extra batteries is crucial to have light and visibility during power outages. Choose an LED flashlight for efficiency.
Whistle - A loud whistle can be used to call for help if needed. Get one that can be heard over long distances.
Dust mask - Dust masks protect your lungs from smoke, ash, and debris in the air after disasters. Choose N95-rated masks for effectiveness.
Maps - Local maps can help navigate evacuation routes or find shelters when cell towers are down. Always have a paper map on hand.
Manual can opener - When the power goes out, you'll need a way to open canned goods. A manual opener lets you access food without electricity.
Emergency radio - Battery-powered or hand cranked radios provide weather updates, emergency instructions, and news during power failures.
Games for kids - Keep children occupied with familiar games, puzzles, books and activities. Reduce stress levels for the whole family.
First aid kit - A well-stocked first aid kit tends to injuries until professional medical treatment is available after disasters. Include bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc.

Preparing emergency kits takes some time and planning upfront, but can literally save lives when catastrophe strikes. Use this list to ensure your family has the fundamental supplies to safely weather any natural disaster.

Essential Items for Your Emergency Bag List

When preparing an emergency bag for natural disasters, having the right supplies can make all the difference. The FEMA emergency supply list provides an excellent foundation to build upon. By including sustenance, water, medical items, and other critical gear, your bag will enable survival in the aftermath of storms, earthquakes, floods, and more.

The FEMA Emergency Supply List: A Foundation

FEMA's emergency supply list outlines the basic items every survival bag should contain. This includes:

Water - 1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days
Food - Non-perishable, high-calorie items to last 3 days
First aid kit - To treat injuries and medical issues
Medications - Both prescription and over-the-counter
Tools - Flashlight, batteries, duct tape, plastic sheeting, etc.
Sanitation and hygiene - Soap, toilet paper, feminine products, etc.
Clothing and bedding - Including sturdy shoes and blankets
Special items - For babies, seniors, pets and those with disabilities

This list establishes a baseline for emergency preparedness. Preppers can build upon it with additional gear specific to natural disasters.

Food for Emergency Kit: Sustenance for Survival

When packing food for an emergency kit, opt for calorie-dense non-perishables that don't require refrigeration or preparation. Useful items include:

Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruits in juice, and meat
Peanut butter and other nut butters
Dried fruits and trail mixes
Granola, cereal, and protein bars
Crackers and pretzels
Beef jerky or canned tuna fish
Powdered milk, coffee, or drink mixes

MREs (meals ready to eat) are also handy for providing balanced, self-contained meals. To further expand your food supply, learn skills like dehydrating, pickling, and home canning. Properly stored, these homemade items can last for years.

Water Essentials: Hydration and Purification

In an emergency scenario, clean drinking water will be critical. The recommended amount is 1 gallon per person daily. Ways to supply water include:

Bottling tap water in advance
Having water filtration systems like LifeStraws
Using water purification tablets like Aquatabs
Boiling water to kill pathogens
Setting up rainwater collection systems

Store water in thoroughly washed plastic, glass, or enamel containers. Replace supplies every 6 months to keep it fresh. With the right preparation, you can ensure access to the lifesaving resource of water.

First Aid Kit: Addressing Medical Emergencies

A well-stocked first aid kit enables prompt treatment for injuries and sudden medical issues. Essentials include:

Sterile gauze pads, rolls, and tape
Bandages ranging from small strips to triangular slings
Disinfectants like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine
Medical gloves and trauma shears
Digital thermometer
Prescription medications
Painkillers, anti-inflammatories, antihistamines
First aid manual

Rotate perishable medical supplies annually. Having the capacity to stabilize wounds, illness, and chronic conditions will be vital when hospitals are inaccessible.

By using FEMA's list as a baseline, then expanding upon it with food, water, medical gear, and other vital items, you can assemble an emergency bag to equip you for almost any natural disaster. Follow expert guidance to prepare cost-effective kits with a focus on sustainability. The peace of mind of being equipped for the unexpected makes all the difference.

Preparing for Specific Disasters: Hurricane and Earthquake Kits

When preparing emergency kits for natural disasters, it's important to consider the unique needs for different types of events. Hurricanes and earthquakes require some specialized gear to properly weather the storm or seismic activity.

Hurricane Kit List: Weathering the Storm

A well-stocked hurricane kit should contain supplies to withstand high winds, heavy rain, flooding, and potential power outages. Be sure to have the following:

Waterproof bags or containers to protect electronics, documents, and other essentials
Emergency radio and extra batteries to receive storm updates if power goes out
Rain ponchos, jackets, and waterproof boots
Ropes, tarps, duct tape, and tools like a hatchet or hammer to shelter in place if needed
Water filtration system or purification tablets in case water becomes contaminated

It's also smart to have some additional food, water, and medicine beyond the standard 3-day supply in case flooding prevents you from leaving. Having a paper map on hand can also help if digital navigation systems fail.

Emergency Kit for Earthquake: Staying Grounded

Earthquake kits should be designed to keep you safe both during and after seismic events. Have the following supplies:

Fire extinguisher, pliers, screwdrivers, and sturdy gloves to turn off utilities like gas lines
Hard hats, goggles, dust masks, and leather work gloves to protect yourself while sheltering
Backup chargers or generators for electronics
Tents, tarps, blankets, and sleeping bags if your home becomes too damaged to inhabit
First aid kit with sutures, tourniquets, and medications to treat injuries

It's also important to identify and reinforce potential structural weaknesses in your home before a quake. Secure items that could fall and keep shoes and flashlights by your bed. Planning ahead is key to making it through seismic shaking.

Having tailored emergency kits for hurricanes and earthquakes equips you with the specific tools and knowledge to safely endure these destructive forces of nature. Customizing for the expected conditions allows for better preparation and survival.

Technical Tools and Accessories

Power and Light: Flashlights and Power Banks

Having reliable light sources and power banks to charge devices is crucial in an emergency situation. I recommend keeping the following in your emergency bag:

A wind-up or solar-powered flashlight that does not require batteries. Popular brands like Eton and Goal Zero make high-quality options.
Rechargeable flashlights and headlamps so you don't have to worry about running out of batteries. Black Diamond and Petzl are reputable outdoor gear companies.
A portable power bank capable of charging phones and other small electronics multiple times, like those made by Anker. Consider solar-powered banks that can be recharged via sunlight.
Extra rechargeable AA and AAA batteries to power flashlights and radios if needed. Panasonic Eneloop batteries maintain 85% of their charge after a year of storage.

Having redundant light and power sources ensures you are never left in the dark during an emergency situation.

Communication Devices: Staying Informed

It is vital to stay updated on the latest news and instructions from local authorities during disasters. Useful communication devices for your emergency bag include:

A wind-up or battery-powered AM/FM/NOAA weather radio, like those made by Midland, RunningSnail, or Eton. These allow you to receive emergency broadcasts and alerts even when the power grid is down.
An emergency whistle with an integrated LED light, useful for signaling rescuers and illuminating your location at night. Popular affordable options are made by Fox 40 and UST.
A Faraday bag or pouch to protect electronic devices from electromagnetic energy, which can damage gear in certain emergency situations. Silva, Mission Darkness, and other brands make quality Faraday storage solutions.

Staying connected, informed, and able to signal for help greatly improves resilience and safety during disasters.

A compass for navigation when GPS is unavailable. Choose a quality liquid-filled compass with a sighting mirror like those made for hiking and orienteering by Suunto, Silva, and Cammenga. Learn how to use a compass before an emergency situation arises.
A signal mirror capable of reflecting sunlight 20+ miles to alert rescuers. Popular affordable options are made by Coghlan's and Solkoa.
A survival whistle for signaling rescuers if you are trapped or lost, like those made by Fox 40 or UST.
Waterproof matches and fire starters, useful for lighting, signaling, and warmth. Recommended products include UCO Stormproof Matches and Ultimate Survival Technologies BlastMatch Fire Starter.

Having redundant methods of navigation, signaling, and fire starting is prudent preparation for various emergency scenarios when help may be far away.

Shelter and Comfort: From Tents to Sleeping Bags

Portable Shelter: Tents and Tarps

Having portable shelter options like tents and tarps is crucial for maintaining safety and comfort during an emergency situation. Tents provide an enclosed space to escape the elements, while tarps can be fashioned into makeshift shelters or used to waterproof existing structures.

When selecting a tent, durability and ease of setup are key factors. Dome-style tents with shock corded poles are relatively easy to erect and provide ample headroom. Other features like vestibules for gear storage and rain flies to block precipitation are also useful. Breathable fabrics that won't trap condensation are preferred.

For tarps, look for lightweight but tear-resistant materials like silnylon. Tarps with reinforced grommets and multiple configurable tie-out points offer flexibility in setups. A tarp at least 8 x 10 ft should provide enough coverage for basic shelter needs. Having paracord or rope to rig tarps is also essential.

The ability to get shelter fast during a crisis can be lifesaving. Keep tents/tarps accessible and practice setting them up so the process becomes second nature when needed urgently.

Sleeping Arrangements: Insulated Sleeping Bags and Pillows

Rest and warmth are vital for health and survival. An insulated sleeping bag suited to the climate is fundamental for maintaining body heat overnight or during prolonged incidents. Look for a mummy-style bag with a temperature rating appropriate for your region. Other useful features include a water-resistant shell, draft tube and collar to prevent heat loss, and a hood to seal in warmth.

Compact and lightweight hiking pillows can maximize comfort when resting in unfamiliar locations or conditions. Inflatable pillows allow you to adjust firmness, while pillows with memory foam provide more support. Some even have attachment systems to secure them to sleeping bags.

Having the ability to get adequate sleep during an emergency helps both physical and mental fortitude to endure the challenges such situations bring. Invest in reliable sleeping gear so your body can get the rest it requires.

Sanitation and Hygiene in Emergencies

Maintaining proper hygiene during an emergency is critical to preventing illness. When infrastructure is compromised, access to clean water and sanitation can be limited, raising the risk of diseases. Preparing hygiene essentials as part of an emergency kit can help reduce this risk.

Personal Hygiene: No-Rinse Body Wash to Bidets

Personal hygiene items are a must for any emergency bag. Having the ability to wash yourself without running water can greatly improve health outcomes when normal amenities are not available. Useful items include:

No-rinse body wash - Cleans effectively without needing water rinse
Portable bidets - Allow washing after toileting without plumbing
Baby wipes - Disposable wipes for quick cleanups
Bar soap and washcloths - Basic washing essentials
Toothbrush and toothpaste - Prevent dental issues
Feminine hygiene products - Specific needs for women

Packing a few key personal hygiene items like these can go a long way during an emergency situation.

Sanitation Tools: From Disinfecting Wipes to Waste Bags

Keeping your environment clean is also key to avoid the spread of illness and disease when living in close quarters. Useful sanitation items include:

Disinfecting wipes and sprays - Kill germs on surfaces
Garbage bags - Proper waste containment
Kitty litter or bucket toilet - For emergency sanitation needs
Bleach - For purification and disinfection
Work gloves - Protect hands during cleaning

Having the right tools to clean and disinfect living spaces, along with proper waste disposal methods, can help maintain sanitary conditions even without normal infrastructure.

Preparing both personal hygiene items and sanitation tools as part of an emergency kit can go a long way to keeping you and your family healthy during disasters when access to clean water and bathrooms may be limited.

Preparing for the Long Haul: The 14-Day Emergency Kit List

An emergency kit designed to sustain you for 14 days requires more extensive preparation and supply gathering. When facing extended utility outages, supply chain disruptions, or isolation due to natural disasters, having reserves and sustainable resources is crucial.

Extended Food Supplies: Building a Sustainable Pantry

When preparing a 14-day emergency kit, focus on building a sustainable pantry with nutritious, non-perishable foods:

Staples like rice, beans, pasta, and oats provide carbohydrates and proteins for energy and fullness. Aim for at least 2 pounds of each per person.
Canned or pouched proteins like tuna, salmon, chicken, and beef ensure you get muscle-maintaining proteins.
Dried fruits, nuts, peanut butter, and protein bars round out the nutritional needs with fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals.
MREs or freeze-dried backpacker's meals offer easy, pre-made options you can rely on.

Rotate and replace food items every 6-12 months before expiry dates. Augment with home-canned or dehydrated foods if possible.

Long-Term Water Strategies: Storage and Purification

In addition to water storage containers holding 1 gallon per person per day, consider long-term purification solutions like:

Water filtration systems remove bacteria and viruses from found water sources. The Sawyer Squeeze and LifeStraw Family filters are portable, high-capacity options.
Water purification tablets like Potable Aqua eliminate harmful organisms and pathogens from water. Easy to pack, with a long shelf life.
Boiling water vigorously for 1 minute ensures any pathogens are neutralized. Bring a compact backpacking stove and fuel canisters.

Store water in food-safe containers, out of sunlight, and replace every 6 months. Have both storage and on-demand purification plans to access safe water for 2 weeks.

Conclusion: Final Checklist and Review

Having an emergency bag tailored to your unique needs is crucial for preparing for natural disasters. Here is a final checklist of essential items to include:

Emergency Bag Checklist

Water - Have at least 1 gallon per person for 3 days. Consider water filtration systems as well.
Non-perishable Food - Pack high-calorie foods like granola bars, nuts, and canned goods.
First Aid Kit - Include bandages, gauze, ointments, medications, etc.
Tools and Supplies - Pack a radio, flashlight, batteries, duct tape, garbage bags, etc.
Clothing and Bedding - Include weatherproof jackets, gloves, sturdy shoes, sleeping bags, blankets.
Hygiene and Sanitation - Soap, toilet paper, feminine products, hand sanitizer.
Special Items - Don't forget medications, infant formula, pet food, or items for seniors.

Having the proper emergency bag tailored to your situation can greatly improve your ability to safely endure a natural disaster. Use this checklist to ensure you have accounted for water, food, first aid, tools, clothing, hygiene products and any special needs. Follow expert recommendations and check your kit twice a year. Being prepared can save lives.