Emergency Survival List Essentials

When crisis strikes, having an emergency survival list of essentials can mean the difference between life and death.

By understanding the fundamental items every emergency kit requires, you can properly prepare for unforeseen events and protect yourself and your loved ones.

In this article, we will explore the basics of emergency preparedness, overview the essential categories to include in your survival list, and provide specifics on tailoring your kit to your situation.

Introduction to Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared for emergencies and disasters is critical for maintaining safety and well-being. An emergency survival list outlines the essential items everyone should have on-hand in case of unforeseen events like natural disasters, accidents, or infrastructure failures. These lists help ensure you can meet your fundamental needs during a crisis.

Understanding Emergency Survival Lists

An emergency survival list, often called a bug-out bag, go-bag, or disaster preparedness kit, contains the basic equipment, tools, and supplies to survive for at least 72 hours when immediate evacuation is necessary or access to food, water, and shelter is impacted. The list covers survival essentials like food, water, first aid, clothing, shelter, lighting, communication devices, and other gear. Having these critical items ready in advance helps manage the initial shock and instability of an emergency while longer-term solutions are established.

The Essentials of Survival: What to Include

When making an emergency survival list, focus first on meeting physiological needs:

Water - Having potable water is the #1 priority. Plan for at least one gallon per person per day. Purchase commercially bottled water or store tap water in food-grade plastic jugs. Include water purification methods like filters or chemical treatments.
Food - Stock non-perishable, high-calorie foods like protein bars, canned goods, nuts, dried fruits, and crackers. Focus on nutrients and calories versus taste.
First Aid - A first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. helps treat injuries and illness.
Shelter - Pack emergency blankets, tents, tarps, and cold weather clothing to protect from the elements. Having basic shelter is essential.
Communication - Phones, radios, signal mirrors, and whistles facilitate getting help.
Light - Flashlights, lanterns, glow sticks, and extra batteries provide critical illumination.
Tools - Knives, duct tape, fire starters, a multi-tool, rope, and basic tools enable survival procedures.
Sanitation and Hygiene - Toilet paper, feminine products, soap, disinfectants, and other sanitation aides prevent disease.

Building an emergency survival list focused on the fundamentals establishes a minimum viable preparedness plan. With the essentials covered, further customizations can address more advanced medical issues, self-defense needs, evacuation protocols, and sustainability over longer time periods. But the basics listed above form the core emergency supply kit for maintaining safety.

What are 10 items in a survival kit?

Here are 10 essential items to include in your emergency survival kit:

Flashlight - A flashlight with extra batteries is crucial for lighting your way in the dark during a power outage. Choose one that is durable, waterproof, and uses LED bulbs.
Whistle - A loud whistle can be used to call for help if you are trapped or lost. Get one that can be heard over long distances.
Dust mask - Dust masks protect your lungs from smoke, ash, and airborne particles if evacuation is necessary. Choose N95 or N100 masks for the best filtration.
Local maps - Keep maps of your local area on hand so you can navigate evacuation routes or find alternate shelters. Choose paper maps in case digital maps and GPS fail.
Manual can opener - If the power goes out, you'll need a non-electric can opener to access canned food and supplies. Sturdy, hand-powered openers work the best.
Battery-powered radio - Stay informed about the emergency situation and any safety instructions with a battery-powered or hand cranked AM/FM radio.
Entertainment items - Books, puzzles, games, crayons, and paper will keep children occupied if you must shelter-in-place for an extended time.
First aid kit - A well-stocked first aid kit includes bandages, gauze, antiseptic, pain medication, latex gloves, trauma shears, thermometer, tweezers, and first aid instructions.
Extra cash - Have small bills on hand in case ATMs and credit card readers aren't functioning.
Copies of important documents - Include copies of identification, insurance information, prescriptions, etc. in a waterproof bag or container.

What is an emergency checklist?

An emergency checklist is a vital component of any disaster preparedness plan. At its core, an emergency checklist outlines the essential items, tasks, and considerations necessary to effectively respond to and endure a crisis situation.

Having a comprehensive emergency checklist ensures you have gathered and organized the fundamental supplies, information, and protocols required to protect health, safety, and welfare when faced with unforeseen disasters or emergencies. Key emergency checklist essentials include:

Water - Stock and regularly rotate an emergency supply of water for drinking, food preparation, hygiene, and medical needs. The recommended amount is one gallon per person per day for at least 72 hours.
Non-perishable food - Build up a reserve of nutritious, long-shelf life foods like canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and protein bars. Prioritize calories and nutrients.
First aid kit - Prepare a well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, sanitation supplies, etc. Know basic injury response, CPR, and medical care.
Tools and gear - Gather equipment for securing shelter, cooking food, providing light and communication, maintaining hygiene and sanitation, and other critical needs.
Important documents - Ensure easy access to identification, insurance information, bank details, medical history, contacts list, etc.
Communications plan - Establish primary and backup methods to receive emergency alerts and connect with family, friends, and aid organizations.

Having an emergency checklist prepares you for the unexpected by organizing the fundamental items and information to safely respond, endure hardships, and recover from disasters. Review, update and practice your emergency checklist regularly.

What are the 7 steps in an emergency?

The 7 basic steps for providing first aid in an emergency situation are:

Danger - Check the scene and ensure it is safe for you to approach and assist. Protect yourself from further harm.
Response - Check if the injured person is conscious and responding. Gently tap them and shout to get their attention.
Send for help - Call emergency services or ask someone to do so. Provide details on the location, what happened, number of injured, and help required.
Airway - Ensure the person's airway is clear and open. Watch for breathing problems.
Breathing - Check if they are breathing normally. Perform rescue breaths if needed.
CPR - If no breathing or pulse, begin chest compressions. Follow CPR procedure.
Defibrillator - Use an AED if available to revive cardiac arrest. Follow device prompts.

Remembering these 7 basic steps can help you quickly assess the situation, protect yourself, call for medical assistance, and provide potentially lifesaving first aid care until emergency responders arrive. Having the right emergency gear and some first aid knowledge prepares you to act decisively.

What do you put in an emergency grab bag?

An emergency grab bag, also known as a go bag, is essential for disaster preparedness. It allows you to quickly gather critical supplies in the event of an emergency evacuation. Here are some of the most vital items to include in your grab bag:

Food and Water

Having nutrition and hydration is crucial in an emergency situation. Easy-to-store foods like protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, and bottled water are convenient grab bag options. MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) are also a compact, nutrient-dense choice.

Ready-to-eat foods (protein bars, dried fruit, nuts, etc.)
Bottled water
MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)

Power and Communication Resources

Being able to charge devices, access information, and communicate with others is extremely important during disasters. Key items to pack:

Phone charger and battery bank
Hand-crank or battery-powered radio for weather updates
Flashlight (hand-crank or battery-powered)
Extra batteries

First Aid and Medications

Having basic medical supplies and prescription medications in your bag provides protection in case of injury or limited access to healthcare. Be sure to include:

Compact first aid kit
Personal medications
Other toiletries (glasses, contacts, etc.)

An emergency grab bag with food, power resources, communication devices, first aid, and other essentials equips you to handle disasters and evacuations safely. Keep it easily accessible in case crisis strikes.

Food & Water: Sustaining Life in Emergencies

Having adequate food and water is critical for survival during an emergency. Stocking up on non-perishable foods and securing safe drinking water should be top priorities when preparing an emergency kit.

Non-perishable Food Selections for Your Emergency Kit

When choosing non-perishable foods for your emergency survival kit, opt for items that:

Have a long shelf life of 1-5 years or more
Are high in protein and nutrients
Require no refrigeration
Can be eaten without heating or very minimal preparation

Great options include:

Canned meats (tuna, chicken, salmon)
Canned beans, vegetables, and fruits
Peanut butter and nut butters
Dried fruits and vegetables
Granola, cereal, oatmeal packets
Protein or granola bars
Crackers
Nuts and trail mixes

Rotate and replace food items every six months to keep them fresh. Also pack a manual can opener, plates, utensils, and other tools for meal preparation.

Water Storage Solutions and Purification

Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of 3 days. Consider keeping a 2 week supply if possible.
Use food-grade plastic containers, stainless steel water bottles, or water storage bags. Ensure containers have tight sealing lids.
Treat water to eliminate contaminants. Use water purification tablets, bleach (8 drops per gallon), or a water filter designed for emergency use.
Label all water containers with expiration dates and replace every six months.

Having ample reserves of water and long-lasting food is imperative for maintaining health and enduring prolonged emergencies. Follow these recommendations when stocking survival kits.

Shelter & Warmth: Protecting Against the Elements

Having proper shelter and warmth provisions is critical for an emergency survival list. When a disaster strikes, protection from the elements can mean the difference between life and death.

Shelter Materials for Various Disasters

Compact, lightweight shelter materials are essential items for a go-bag or emergency kit. Useful options include:

Tarps: Tarps offer versatile, waterproof overhead shelter from rain, snow, wind, etc. They can be configured in different ways, like as a lean-to or tent. A tarp is a smart addition for an earthquake or hurricane emergency kit.
Tents: Tents provide enclosed shelter. Look for durable, compact tents that are quick to set up. Consider your climate - are warmth and insulation required? Prioritize breathable tents if condensation buildup is a concern.
Bivvy sacks: Bivvy sacks are lightweight, weatherproof sleeping bag covers. They help retain body heat while keeping the elements out. Bivvys take up little pack space, making them useful for longer-term emergency supply kits.

Choose shelter gear suitable for your environment and potential risks. Favor versatility - items like tarps accommodate many setups.

Insulation & Warmth: Ensuring Comfort and Safety

Beyond shelter, insulation and warmth items are vital for health and safety:

Emergency blankets: Often made of heat-reflective mylar, emergency blankets trap body heat to prevent hypothermia. They take up little space, earning a spot in any emergency go-bag.
Hand warmers: Reusable hand warmers contain ingredients that produce heat when exposed to air. They provide portable warmth without flames or power. Consider for cold weather emergency kits.
Insulated jackets/sleeping bags: Down or synthetic insulated outerwear and sleep systems provide warmth when shelter alone isn't enough. Include insulation layers sized for each family member.

Don't underestimate the importance of insulation and warmth for emergency scenarios spanning hours to weeks. Prepare for cold conditions by packing gear to safely maintain body heat.

First Aid: Essential Medical Response

Having a well-stocked first aid kit is critical for emergency preparedness. When a disaster strikes, you may not have access to medical facilities, so being able to provide basic first aid and medical care is essential. A comprehensive first aid kit should contain supplies to treat injuries, manage pain, and meet other medical needs during an emergency situation.

First Aid Supplies: Building a Responsive Kit

Every emergency kit should include basic first aid items such as:

Adhesive bandages: An assortment of bandage sizes for minor cuts and scrapes
Gauze pads and rolls: To control bleeding and dress wounds
Antiseptic wipes: To clean cuts and prevent infection
Antibiotic ointment: To treat minor cuts and burns
Medical tape: To secure dressings and bandages
Scissors and tweezers: For removing debris and splinters
Over-the-counter pain medication: For relieving aches, fever, and pain
Anti-diarrhea medication
Electrolyte tablets or powders: To prevent dehydration
Thermometer: To monitor for fever and infection
First aid instruction manual

Having these basic supplies on hand will allow you to effectively treat minor injuries and keep them from becoming infected. Be sure to check expiration dates and replace items regularly.

Prescription Medications and Specialized Care

In addition to a standard first aid kit, you should stock up on any prescription medications you normally take, including heart medication, insulin, asthma inhalers, and EpiPens for allergies. Having at least a 2 week supply is recommended.

Also consider any specialized medical needs your family may have, such as supplies for infants, the elderly, or those with chronic illnesses. Customize your kit accordingly. Things to account for include mobility aids, pediatric medications, and medical technologies like CPAP machines. An emergency situation is not the time to realize you forgot an critical medication or medical device.

Preparing for medical emergencies ahead of time by building a comprehensive first aid kit can help protect health and save lives when disaster strikes. Don't wait until it's too late - take action today.

Tools & Survival Gear: Equipping for Self-Reliance

Having the right tools and gear is crucial for effective emergency preparedness. When an unexpected event occurs, having versatile equipment on hand can make a significant difference in one's ability to respond and adapt to challenging situations. This section recommends key survival tools and gear that are versatile, reliable, and fit for a variety of needs.

Multi-Tools and Utility Items: Versatile Solutions

Multi-tools are a preparedness essential for any emergency survival list. Their compact size and variety of functions allow for flexible solutions when resources are limited. Some top options to consider include:

Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman: These classic multi-tools integrate knives, pliers, screwdrivers, bottle openers, and other functions into one tool. They can assist with a wide range of tasks from opening cans to making repairs.
Emergency whistle: A loud whistle can signal location or call for help when voice communication is not possible. Whistles should be included in any disaster preparedness kit.
Paracord bracelet: This type of bracelet can quickly unravel over 10 feet of durable rope for securing items, climbing, or crafting shelter. The bracelet form keeps the rope accessible when space is limited.

Having versatile tools like these that serve many needs are essential emergency items that maximize usefulness while minimizing the space taken in an emergency bag or kit.

Illumination and Fire-Starting Tools

When an unexpected event occurs, having reliable light sources and the ability to start emergency fires facilitates survival and self-reliance. Key items to include are:

Flashlight: LED flashlights that use AA or AAA batteries are reliable even in cold weather. Strobe and glow features also assist signaling needs.
Glow sticks: These inexpensive light sources provide hours of illumination and help mark locations at night.
Waterproof matches: Matches that can strike even when wet are a compact fire-starting essential.
Lighter: Useful for igniting fires, lighters should be packed with fire fuel as a backup.

Having multiple options for illumination and fire gives confidence to endure a crisis situation. Checking batteries and fuel levels routinely will ensure these preparedness tools are ready when an emergency strikes.

By equipping oneself with versatile, durable gear designed for adaptation, one can be ready to handle a variety of situations and protect well-being until help arrives. The above list of multi-tools, utility items, light sources, and fire starters form an essential basis for emergency preparedness.

Hygiene & Sanitation: Preserving Health

Maintaining personal hygiene and sanitation during an emergency is critical for preserving health and preventing illness. Having the right supplies on hand can make a significant difference in one's ability to stay clean, healthy, and safe when normal amenities are disrupted.

Sanitation Supplies: Staying Clean and Healthy

Keeping clean is essential, but without running water, special provisions must be made. An emergency kit should contain:

Soap: Antibacterial bar or liquid soap allows for handwashing and basic hygiene when water access is limited.
Hand sanitizer: At least 60% alcohol sanitizer can disinfect hands without water. Consider pump-bottles as well as individually wrapped wipes.
Disinfecting wipes: Wipes help clean surfaces and prevent disease spread by killing bacteria and viruses. Look for EPA-approved wipes.
Bleach: Adding a small amount of bleach to water can disinfect it for washing. Get plain, unscented bleach with 5-6% sodium hypochlorite.
Garbage bags: Designate bags for waste containment until proper disposal is possible.

Proper sanitation mitigates risk of communicable illnesses when living conditions are compromised. Stocking these fundamental supplies supports health in unstable settings.

Personal Hygiene Items: Essential Toiletries

Beyond sanitation, individuals have personal hygiene needs for comfort and wellbeing. Emergency kits should include:

Toothbrush and toothpaste: Prevent tooth decay and infection.
Menstrual products: Sanitary pads, tampons, cups to manage menstruation.
Deodorants: Helps minimize body odor.
Washcloths: Aids in cleaning without full bathing access.
Hairbrush and comb: Helps maintain hair and scalp health.
Nail clippers/files: Keeps nails trimmed to prevent infections and injury.
Lip balm: Soothes and protects dry, cracked lips.

Though often overlooked, these self-care items promote normalcy and dignity when living conditions are abnormal. Planning for individual needs ensures emergency preparedness plans are truly complete.

Communication: Staying Connected in Crisis

Communication is critical in an emergency situation. When traditional communication systems fail, having backup plans and equipment can help you stay connected and get help.

Emergency Radios and Signaling Devices

Having a battery-powered or hand crank emergency radio is essential to receive broadcasts and emergency information when the power goes out. Choose a radio with AM/FM bands, weather band channels, and multiple power options like solar, battery, hand crank, and USB charging. A whistle and signaling mirror are also useful to alert rescuers if needed.

Battery/Hand Crank/Solar Powered Radio
AM/FM/Weather Band Reception
Whistle with Lanyard
Signal Mirror

Backup Communication Plans

In addition to an emergency radio, have backup plans to communicate with family and emergency services:

Consider getting an emergency satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach. It allows 2-way text messaging via satellite when cell networks are down.
Have a family communications plan with an out-of-town contact to relay messages. Carry their and other emergency contacts in your wallet.
Write down key phone numbers as cell phones may lose charge. Consider getting a solar powered USB charger.
Get to know your neighbors and community resources in case you need to ask for help nearby.

Documentation & Records: Keeping Information Accessible

Having copies of important personal documentation stored in your emergency kit is crucial for maintaining access to critical information if a disaster strikes. This section will cover key documents to include that can aid in identification, recovery, and accessing assistance after an emergency.

Identification and Legal Documents

Be sure to have copies of key identification documents for each family member in your emergency kit, including:

Driver's license
Passport
Birth certificate
Social security card

These will be essential for proving identity and citizenship if your home is damaged or if you need to evacuate the area. Having these documents easily accessible can save precious time when applying for assistance.

Essential Documents for Recovery and Assistance

In addition to identification records, also store copies of documents that can help expedite post-disaster recovery and insurance claims, such as:

Homeowners or renters insurance information
Auto insurance cards
Health insurance cards
Bank account info
Medical history summaries
Wills, trusts, or advanced directives

These financial and medical documents provide proof needed to claim disaster assistance, insurance payouts for damages/loss, and healthcare if injured. They enable faster processing for aid, compensation, medical care access or prescription refills.

The peace of mind of knowing you have all critical documentation for identity verification, disaster recovery claims, and accessing essential services is a key reason to keep copies in your emergency survival kit. Protect yourself and your family by taking time today to organize these vital records.

Customizing Your Emergency Kit: Personalization for Preparedness

Creating an emergency kit tailored to your specific needs and situation is crucial for effective disaster preparedness. When assembling your kit, consider regional risks, special medical requirements, children, pets and other family needs.

Regional Considerations: Tailoring Your Disaster Plan

Research likely natural disasters in your area such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods or wildfires. Prepare supplies accordingly.
Earthquake prone areas: Stock up on bottled water, canned food and first aid supplies. Secure furniture and appliances.
Flood zones: Keep important documents in waterproof containers and have sandbags handy.
Hurricane regions: Have plywood, tools and tarps to protect windows and outdoor items.

Special Needs and Family Planning for Emergencies

Account for each family member's needs including infants, elderly, those with disabilities or medical conditions.
Have at least 7 day supply of medications and medical supplies if possible.
Stock extra food, water and supplies for children and pets. Include comfort items.
Have games, books and activities for kids.
Ensure pet carriers or leashes available and have extra food, water, medicine for pets.
Know evacuation routes and emergency contacts for each family member.

The key is evaluating your unique risks and needs, then customizing your emergency kit and plan accordingly. This personalized approach leads to better preparedness. Update as needs change.

Conclusion: Recap of Emergency Survival Essentials

Having a comprehensive emergency survival list is critical for maintaining safety and well-being during unforeseen events. The essential items to include are:

First aid kit: Contains medical supplies to treat injuries and illnesses. Having bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. can be lifesaving.
Emergency food and water: Non-perishable food and bottled water will provide sustenance if access to utilities is disrupted. Aim for at least a 3-day supply.
Flashlight and batteries: Essential for lighting and safety if power goes out. LED flashlights offer long battery life. Bring extra batteries.
Radio and chargers: Stay updated on news and weather with a battery-powered or hand crank radio. Have backup chargers for phones/devices.
Cash: ATMs and payment systems may not work during disasters. Have small bills on hand for purchasing needs.
Medications: If you take prescription meds, have at least a week’s supply in your kit. List dosages/frequency.
First aid and survival manuals: Reference materials with instructions on medical treatment, survival skills, emergency procedures.
Warm clothes: Include jackets, hats, gloves to protect from cold weather during evacuation. Choose breathable fabrics.

Having these basic emergency preparedness items can provide safety, sustenance and survival in the aftermath of unforeseen catastrophes. Follow emergency checklists to stay ready.