Emergency Supply Kit for Home Essentials

Preparing for emergencies starts at home. We all agree it's essential to have the supplies to safely meet basic needs when disaster strikes.

This comprehensive guide on emergency kits for the home promises exact details on assembling your own complete readiness package.

You'll get checklists of the top 10 must-have items, coverage of unique needs for medications, pets, and more, plus tips on storage and upkeep so your kit is always emergency-ready.

Assembling Your Emergency Supply Kit

An emergency supply kit tailored for your home is an essential part of preparation. Having the right supplies on hand can provide safety, security, and peace of mind when an emergency strikes. This kit should contain enough food, water, and other basics to sustain your household for at least three days.

Must-Have Items

Here are some of the key items every emergency supply kit for the home should include:

Water - Stock up on bottled water or store tap water in clean containers. Aim for at least one gallon per person per day. Also include water purification tablets in case supplies run low.
Non-perishable food - Canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. Focus on nutrient-dense foods that don't require cooking.
First aid kit - Adhesive bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, pain medication, safety pins, scissors, thermometer.
Tools and supplies - Flashlight, batteries, manual can opener, multi-tool, matches/lighter, duct tape, garbage bags, face masks.
Personal items - Prescription medications, eyeglasses, infant formula, feminine hygiene products, pet food.
Electronics - Battery-powered radio, external phone chargers and batteries, headlamps.
Copies of important documents - Identification, health insurance, emergency contacts.

Storage Tips

Store your emergency supply kit in an easily accessible area like a hall closet or basement. Use clear plastic bins or storage containers with lids to help items stay organized and free from damage. Take inventory every six months and replace any expired or depleted items. Keep a go-bag version ready to take with you if you need to quickly evacuate.

Being prepared with an emergency kit can provide vital safety and give you peace of mind. Use this checklist to ensure your household has what it needs to ride out a crisis.

What should I have in an emergency kit for home?

Assembling an emergency supply kit tailored for your home is an essential step in preparing for potential disasters or emergencies. Having the recommended basic supplies on hand will help you and your family get through the critical first 72 hours of an emergency situation.

Here is a checklist of recommended items to include in your home emergency kit:

Water - Stock up on bottled water for drinking and sanitation needs. Aim to have at least one gallon per person for several days. Make sure to check expiration dates and replenish supplies annually. Consider purchasing water purification tablets as a backup.
Non-perishable food - Build up a multi-day supply of canned goods, protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, crackers, peanut butter, etc. Focus on nutrient-dense foods with a long shelf life that don't require cooking. Don't forget to pack a manual can opener!
Battery-powered radio - A radio will allow you to stay updated on emergency news and weather reports when the power goes out. Opt for a hand crank or battery-powered model. Include extra batteries.
Flashlight - Choose an LED flashlight that is impact and water-resistant. Headlamps are useful for hands-free lighting. Have extra batteries on hand. Glow sticks also serve as an alternative light source.
First aid supplies - Put together a well-stocked first aid kit with essentials like bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, medication, thermometer, tweezers, latex gloves, etc.
Tools and supplies - Gather practical tools like duct tape, plastic sheeting, multipurpose knife, matches/lighter, sewing kit, whistle, work gloves and protective dust masks. These support safety and minor repairs.
Personal items - Don't forget hygiene products, toilet paper, feminine products, diapers if needed, contact lens supplies and copies of vital personal documents.

Having these basic disaster supplies readily available at home will give you confidence to tackle emergency scenarios. Maintain your kit by taking inventory every 6 months and replacing expired items as needed.

What should I have at home for an emergency?

Preparing an emergency supply kit for your home is an essential step to take to ensure you and your family are ready for any unexpected crisis. Having basic supplies on hand can make a difficult situation more manageable.

Here is a checklist of some must-have items to include in your home emergency kit:

Essential Gear

Torch with spare batteries - A reliable flashlight is critical to have in case of a power outage. Choose an LED flashlight that is waterproof and has a long battery life. Extra batteries will allow you to operate it for days if needed.
First aid kit - A first aid kit tailored to your household's needs allows you to treat any minor injuries. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, medication, etc. Know basic first aid as well.
Emergency blankets - These lightweight blankets retain 90% of your body heat to prevent hypothermia. They take up little space and can be a lifesaver.

Food and Water

Water - Stock up on bottled water for drinking and food preparation. Plan for at least one gallon per person, per day, for 7 days. Water stored in food grade plastic containers works too. Remember to replace it every six months.
Canned/nonperishable food - Have enough non-perishable food to feed your household for up to a week. This includes things like canned vegetables, protein-rich beans, fruit, nuts, protein bars, etc.
Utensils/Can Opener - A manual can opener, plates, cups and cutlery will be needed to prepare meals if relying solely on your emergency kit.

Essential Documentation

Contact information - Keep a printed list of emergency phone numbers for family, friends and emergency services. Include phone numbers from outside your local area in case local lines are unavailable.
Identification documents - Copies of key ID documents like drivers licenses, health insurance cards, etc. can be invaluable during emergencies. Store copies in a waterproof bag.
Cash/coins - In an extended emergency, card payment systems may be unavailable. Having a small amount of cash and coins on hand for essential purchases is wise.

Maintaining your emergency supply kit properly ensures items are usable if disaster strikes. Check expiration dates every 6 months. Restock food/water as needed. Review and update emergency contact lists annually. Following these home emergency kit tips guarantees you can respond safely, even in times of crisis.

How to get free emergency kit?

Getting a free emergency kit is possible thanks to FEMA's Emergency Financial First Aid Kit program. This kit contains vital items to help you get through an emergency when access to ATMs or banks is unavailable.

What's in the free emergency kit?

FEMA's emergency financial kit contains useful items like:

Cash in small denominations
Copies of important personal documents
Contact information for financial institutions, creditors, etc.
List of community resources

Storing copies of critical information in one place makes the kit invaluable during an emergency event. Having some emergency cash on hand is also extremely useful.

How to get the free emergency financial kit

Getting FEMA's free emergency kit only takes a few minutes:

Go to the Ready Campaign website
Scroll down and click "Download the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK)"
The kit can be downloaded as a PDF document
Print out the file and gather the recommended documents/items to complete the kit

Putting together even a basic emergency supply kit is essential for dealing with disasters. This free offering from FEMA serves as a great starting point.

What are 20 items in a emergency kit?

KNOW MORE ABOUT THE SPECIFICS OF WHAT YOUR DISASTER EMERGENCY KIT NEEDS BY READING MORE BELOW: Family first aid kit. ... Supply of medicine for 7 days. ... Lots of drinking water. ... Special needs of children, older adults, and persons with disabilities. ... Special needs of your pets. ... Standalone flashlights. ... Candles and matches, glowsticks.

Here is a checklist of some essential items to include in your emergency supply kit for home preparedness:

First aid supplies

Adhesive bandages
Gauze pads and roller bandages
Antibiotic ointment
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen
Thermometer
Tweezers

Food and water

Canned goods and non-perishable snacks
Manual can opener
Bottled water - 1 gallon per person per day
Water purification tablets

Tools and supplies

Flashlight emergency supply kit for home
Extra batteries
Utility knife
Duct tape
Emergency whistle
Local maps

The key is having these basic supplies gathered in advance so you can quickly access them if an emergency hits. Maintain your kit by taking inventory every 6 months and replacing expired items as needed.

Top 10 Items in an Emergency Kit for Home

Discover the 10 items in an emergency kit that are indispensable during a crisis. These essentials will help ensure your survival and comfort when faced with the unexpected. Having an emergency supply kit for home is crucial to be prepared for any emergency, whether it's a natural disaster, power outage, or other situation.

Canned and Dried Goods

Stock up on nutritious canned foods like vegetables, fruits, soups, and proteins. Also have dried goods like granola bars, nuts, oatmeal, and staples like rice, beans, pasta. Some good options include:

Canned meats, fruits, vegetables, beans - These provide protein and nutrients and often have long shelf lives. Choose low-sodium options when possible.
Peanut butter and nut butters - High in calories and protein for energy.
Dried fruits and nuts - Lightweight and full of nutrients.
Cereals, granola bars - Choose whole grain options for fiber.
Comfort foods like soups, pasta, mac and cheese - These provide familiarity and convenience.
Powdered milk, plant-based milk - Reconstitutes easily with water for essential calcium.

When stocking canned and dried goods, prioritize nutritional value, sufficient calories, and shelf stability. Aim for at least 2000 calories per person per day. Rotate items based on expiration dates.

Water Storage and Filtration

Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. Have water purification tabs or a compact filter as backup. Some tips:

Store water in food-grade plastic jugs or BPA-free bottles. Date containers with purchase/refill dates.
Use water purification tablets to make found water potable. These usually take 30+ minutes to work.
Portable filters like LifeStraws allow you to drink directly from lakes, streams, etc. Useful for collecting water.
Bleach can also purify water - mix 1/8 teaspoon per gallon and let stand 30+ mins.

Having both stored water and methods of filtration covers your bases. Change stored water every six months and check equipment condition routinely.

Essential Survival Kit Items for Self-Sufficiency

Being able to provide basic first aid during an emergency could save a life. We'll go over recommended medical items to have on hand, as well as other survival kit items critical for self-sufficiency.

First Aid Kit Contents

Having a well-stocked emergency supply kit for home is crucial to be prepared for any crisis scenario. Here are some of the most essential first aid items to include:

Bandages - Have a variety of bandage sizes, including gauze pads, rolled gauze, and adhesive bandages. These treat cuts, burns, scrapes, and wounds.
Antibiotic ointment - Prevents infection for minor cuts and abrasions. Look for triple-antibiotic versions.
Antiseptic wipes - Cleans wounds and prevents infection. Useful for sanitizing hands when water is scarce.
Medical tape - Holds gauze, bandages, and dressings in place. Waterproof versions are best.
Nitrile gloves - Protects against biohazards when treating others. Latex gloves can cause allergic reactions.
Trauma shears - Cuts through clothing to access wounds. Can also cut bandages.
Prescription medications - If you take maintenance meds, have at least a week's supply.
First aid handbook - Provides step-by-step instructions for treatment. A must-have reference guide.
Minor pain relievers - Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin for pain relief.

Having these 10 items in an emergency kit will equip you to effectively treat minor to moderate injuries at home until professional help can arrive. Rotate items to ensure they don't expire.

Unique Medical Needs

In addition to the basic first aid kit, your emergency bag list should account for unique needs:

Infant supplies like formula, diapers, wipes if you have a baby at home.
EpiPens if someone in your family has severe allergies.
Prescriptions for serious medical conditions - have at least a 2 week supply.
Medical equipment like glucose meters, oxygen tanks, and catheters should be part of your emergency kit for earthquake or evacuation scenarios.
Emergency contacts list - record health conditions, medications, doctors numbers. Critical info for first responders.
Special food requirements - stock up on diabetic, gluten-free, or allergen-free foods per your family's dietary needs.

Preparing an emergency go bag checklist PDF with your family's unique medical considerations ensures you have the specialized gear and treatments covered so that no one's health is compromised when disaster strikes.

Practical Tools and Equipment

Reliable tools, flashlights, batteries, and multipurpose gear are key for handling issues and staying safe in emergencies. Having the right equipment in your emergency supply kit for home can make all the difference in an unexpected crisis.

Light Sources

Pack LED flashlights, glow sticks, and headlamps with extra batteries in your home emergency kit. Quality lighting is essential when the power goes out. LED flashlights last the longest on battery life. Headlamps free up both hands for tasks. Waterproof glow sticks can mark pathways or be used as a backup. You'll want lighting in rooms, vehicles, and for everyone in the household.

Multipurpose Tools

A good knife, can opener, duct tape, heavy work gloves, rope, and a whistle can assist with various needs during or after an emergency. For example, a sturdy knife can cut seatbelts or rope, open cans, or be used for defense. Duct tape has dozens of emergency uses from repairs to first aid. Work gloves protect hands from debris and sharp objects when searching wreckage. A whistle can signal rescuers if trapped or lost. Choose versatile tools that serve multiple purposes.

Hygiene Essentials: Maintaining Health in Crisis

Maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation during an emergency reduces disease risk, especially when infrastructure is compromised. We recommend packing the following vital hygiene supplies in your emergency supply kit for home.

Soap and Disinfectants

Keeping clean is critical, so be sure to pack:

Antibacterial bar or liquid soap
Disinfectant wipes to sanitize surfaces
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Household bleach to purify questionable water sources

Stock up on a few months' supply. Rotate items before expiration dates. Place all in sealed waterproof containers.

Having these basic disinfectants and soaps on hand ensures you can maintain sanitary conditions even if running water is unavailable during a crisis. Proper hygiene prevents the spread of illness and infection when living in close quarters.

Waste and Personal Care

Don't forget personal care and waste management items:

Toilet paper
Heavy-duty trash bags
Feminine hygiene products
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Backup prescription medications

Trash will accumulate rapidly without garbage collection services. Stock extra heavy-duty bags.

Plan for menstruation, dental care, and existing medical needs. Having a reserve of critical personal items boosts morale during already stressful emergency situations.

Rotate supplies to account for expiration dates. Place all items in waterproof storage containers clearly labeled "Hygiene" or "Personal Care." Easy access prevents contamination or waste.

With the recommended soap, disinfectants, and personal care products, you can maintain health and sanitary living conditions if infrastructure fails. We hope these emergency hygiene tips give you confidence to handle any crisis situation. Let us know your tips in the comments!

Staying Informed: Communication Tools

Being able to receive emergency alerts and contact loved ones is crucial during a disaster. Having the right communication tools in your emergency supply kit can help you stay informed and connected.

Battery-Powered Radio

A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is one of the most essential items to include in your emergency supply kit for home. If the power grid fails during a disaster like an earthquake, hurricane, or tornado, you may lose access to cell phone service, internet, and even local radio or TV broadcasts. Having a battery-powered radio allows you to continue receiving emergency alerts and news updates being broadcast over emergency frequencies.

Look for a radio that has multiple power options like batteries, solar charging, and a hand crank. That way if you run out of batteries, you have a backup way to generate power. Some emergency radios also have flashlights, phone chargers, and extra features built-in. Make sure to have extra batteries stored with your radio. Test it occasionally and replace the batteries every 6-12 months to ensure it works when you need it.

Emergency Whistle

An emergency whistle is a small, inexpensive preparedness item that serves an important purpose - signaling rescuers if you are trapped, lost, or injured. The loud, high-pitched noise of a whistle carries much farther than using your voice. If rescue crews are searching an area after a disaster, a whistle blast can alert them to your location.

Whistles are also helpful for maintaining contact with family members if you get separated. Establish an emergency whistle signal that your household recognizes as a way to signal each other. For example, one long blast followed by two short whistles.

Practice occasionally with your family to get familiar with the emergency whistle technique. Add a few whistles into each member's emergency supply kit or bags. Make sure to get a whistle that is made durable material that won't break over time. Replace and test it along with other emergency gear every six months.

Protecting Your Identity and Finances

Copies of critical documents in your emergency kit ensure you have access to essential information if originals are unavailable. Having these documents on hand protects your identity, provides medical history, and allows access to finances in an emergency situation where you may be displaced from your home.

Personal Identification

When disaster strikes, the last thing you want is to lose access to important identification documents. Be sure to have copies of crucial personal ID in your emergency supply kit for home including:

Passports
Driver's licenses
Social Security cards
Proof of residence/address
Insurance cards
Marriage certificates or divorce decrees
Adoption papers
Citizenship documents
Military service documents

Scanning or taking photos of these documents ensures you have backup copies if originals become damaged or misplaced during an emergency. Store the copies in a watertight plastic sleeve or laminate them for durability.

Having identification on hand assists with access to relief services, applying for aid, proving residence status, etc. It also prevents identity theft if documents are compromised.

Medical and Finance Records

Essential medical and financial information should also be part of your home emergency kit in case of displacement:

Prescriptions with dosage details
Medical history with preexisting conditions, allergies, past procedures
Health insurance cards
Bank account details
Credit/debit cards
Loan documents
Wills, trusts, or estates
Investment/retirement account info
Mortgage contracts or property deeds
Vehicle ownership records
Tax documents

These records allow you to manage health conditions during a disaster, provide proof of insurance, access finances if accounts are disrupted, prove home or vehicle ownership, file taxes if paperwork is destroyed, and more.

Laminated or waterproof storage of documents is vital to prevent damage. Storing copies online via secure cloud storage is also recommended for backup purposes if paper copies become unusable.

Having your critical personal documentation in an emergency preparedness kit safeguards your identity, health history, and finances if disaster strikes your home.

Caring for Your Furry Friends: Pet Emergency Bag List

If you have pets, ensuring their safety and wellbeing should be a top priority when prepping an emergency supply kit for your home. Having a dedicated pet emergency bag packed with essentials like food, medications, identification, first aid supplies, and transport items can provide critical support during a disaster or evacuation scenario. Building a pet preparedness kit tailored to your specific pets' needs takes some planning, but is an essential preparedness task for any pet owner.

Species-Specific Needs

When packing emergency supplies for pets, key considerations include:

For Dogs

At least a 3 day supply of dry and wet dog food (don't forget the can opener and dishes!)
Extra collapsible water and food bowls
Medications with detailed dosing instructions
Vaccination records stored in waterproof bag
Sturdy leash and harness - ideally reflective or brightly colored for visibility
Waste pickup bags
Favorite toy and treats
First aid kit - gauze rolls, antibiotic ointment, bandage wraps
Emergency go-bag checklist PDF for any other needed dog supplies

For Cats

At least a 3 day supply dry and wet cat food (don't forget the can opener and dishes!)
Extra collapsible water and food bowls
Litter box with extra litter
Medications with detailed dosing instructions
Vaccination records stored in waterproof bag
Collar with ID tag, harness/leash
Blanket or bedding with familiar scents
First aid supplies - gauze rolls, antibiotic ointment, bandage wraps
Sturdy crate or carrier case

Small Animals and Reptiles

Species-appropriate habitat or tank enviroment - heat lamps, lighting
Extra food supply - vegetables, fruits, live insects, freeze dried treats
Sanitization and waste removal items - substrates, litter
Medications and first aid kit adapted to pet's needs
Water and food bowls, water bottles
Hide box or enclosure providing security

Tweak supplies based on number of pets, breed size and needs, any health issues, or medications. Store items together in easy to access bag or bin clearly labeled "Emergency Kit for Pets".

Transport Items

If evacuation becomes necessary, having the right pet carrier and restraints on hand is crucial. Essential transport and mobility items include:

Sturdy crate or carrier in appropriate size for each pet
Non-slip harness and leash for dogs - consider reflective gear
Collar with up to date ID tag with your phone number
Blanket lined carrier with familiar scents for anxious cats
Reptile/small animal habitat with secure lid

Don't wait until an emergency strikes - assemble pet preparedness kits in advance so your furry friends' needs are covered when disaster strikes! Use handy emergency bag list checklists to compile key supplies. Review and replenish any expired medications, food or gear every 6 months. Being prepared with proper emergency items tailored for your pets' unique needs brings crucial peace of mind.

Preparation for the Unexpected: Emergency Kit for Earthquake

In areas prone to earthquakes, having an emergency kit specifically tailored for such events is crucial. An emergency supply kit for home use ensures you have the essential items on hand to manage such situations.

Assemble basic necessities along with tools to secure your home. Also have a plan to communicate with loved ones if cell networks are interrupted. Here are key aspects to cover in your preparation.

Securing Your Space

When earthquakes strike, heavy items like shelves, televisions, and furniture can shift or topple over, potentially blocking exits or causing injury. Be equipped with tools to properly secure such items:

Straps and fasteners: Nylon straps with buckles are inexpensive and easy to install. Use them to anchor heavy furniture and appliances to wall studs.
Heavy-duty velcro: The high-strength adhesive backing sticks to most surfaces. Use velcro strips in place of or along with straps for added stability.
Sway braces: Designed to limit side-to-side movement, these diagonal braces secure tall bookcases and shelving units to the wall easily.

Also set aside basic materials for minor repairs or debris cleanup:

Work gloves
Safety goggles
Dust masks
Garbage bags
Zip ties
Multi-tool

Having these securing and cleanup tools prepared ahead of time reduces panic if quake damage occurs in your home.

Emergency Communication Plan

Cell networks often face interruptions after earthquakes due to power outages and infrastructure damage. Have an emergency plan for contacting family in place. Useful items include:

Walkie talkies: Store a set with rechargeable batteries. They enable communication up to a few miles range without relying on cell networks.
Emergency whistle: Useful for signaling rescuers if trapped or injured. Choose a high-decibel metal whistle that requires minimal effort when blown.
Paper and pen: Keep forms for listing medical history, allergies and prescriptions. Also useful for leaving notes to indicate your location.

Most importantly, designate an out-of-town emergency contact accessible to all family members. Ensure all household residents have this single point of contact to phone or message after a quake for updates.

Follow these preparation tips for your emergency supply kit for home use before earthquakes strike. The essential tools and communication plans help families stay safe if disaster occurs.

Staying Ready: Emergency Supply Kit Storage and Maintenance

Creating an emergency supply kit tailored for home use is an important step in disaster preparedness. However, proper storage and ongoing maintenance of your kit is equally critical to ensure the items remain usable when needed most. This section provides tips on storage solutions for your home emergency kit along with maintenance recommendations.

Optimizing Your Kit Storage Area

Choosing the right location to store your emergency supply kit can impact longevity and accessibility. Here are key factors to consider:

Accessibility: Store your kit in an easy-to-reach area on the ground level of your home. This allows quick access when evacuating. Bedrooms and hall closets near exits work well.
Cool and Dry Space: Heat and humidity can degrade food, medicine, and gear over time. Prioritize storage in a basement, hallway closet or bedroom closet away from appliances, windows and direct sunlight.
Personalization: If you have medical needs, mobility issues or children, store some critical supplies in easily accessed personalized kits around the home for each family member.
Consolidation: Group items categorically in sealable bins, backpacks or duffel bags marked "Emergency Kit." This allows swift transport of entire kit if evacuating.

Emergency Supply Kit Maintenance Tips

To ensure your emergency supply kit remains ready for use when disaster strikes, follow these maintenance best practices:

Take Inventory: Do a full inventory check every 6 months, replacing expired or degraded items as needed. Update quantities for growing families.
Check Batteries: Replace batteries every 12 months or when power levels deplete. Store devices with lithium batteries separate from kit.
Cycle Food and Water: Replace stored food every 6-12 months. Cycle bottled water every 4-6 months.
Review Gear: Check condition and functionality of emergency tools, radios, lights and medical gear. Replace defective items.
Update Documents: Print new copies of important documents every 1-2 years in case originals become damaged. Store in waterproof case.
Clean Storage Area: Every 2-3 months, vacuum kit storage areas and wipe bins to prevent dust and pests.

Following proper storage and maintenance best practices helps ensure your home emergency supply kit remains primed for use when disasters strike unexpectedly. Revisit your kit often and replace degraded contents before they expire. Disaster preparedness is an ongoing activity, not a one-time event.

Summary: Essential Takeaways for Your Emergency Readiness

Assembling an emergency supply kit tailored for your home is a crucial step in ensuring you and your family are prepared when disaster strikes. Here are some key takeaways:

Have Enough Supplies For At Least 3 Days

Experts recommend having enough emergency supplies on hand to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours. This includes food, water, first aid, tools, hygiene items, and more. Aim for portability as well in case you need to evacuate.

Store Items Properly For Maximum Shelf Life

Proper storage is key to ensuring your emergency kit items remain usable over time. Store food and medicine in cool, dark places and routinely check expiration dates. Consider sturdy, waterproof containers.

Customize Based On Your Family's Unique Needs

Go beyond the basics and tailor your kit to your household. Include any necessary medications, pet food, items for infants/elders, or disability/health considerations. Identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Keeping these tips in mind will help you create a comprehensive emergency supply kit tailored for home readiness during a crisis. Maintain and routinely update your kit so when disaster strikes, you already have essential provisions on hand to weather the storm.