How To Build an Emergency Kit - 1/28/22

Have you ever been in an emergency?

If you have, you know how it can feel.

It might have been terrifying and/or scary.

But, hopefully, you had built an emergency kit to help you live.

Today, I will be telling you how you can make an emergency kit so you and your family are safe.

These can also be called 72-hour kits, grab-and-go bags, etc.

Kits can be used for instances like winter storms, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, wildfires, etc.

You don't need all of these (based on your needs), but here are some ideas:

• Water—at least a gallon per person, per day
• Non-perishable food (such as dried fruit, peanut butter, or energy bars)
• First aid kit
• Cash (in small bills)
• Prescription medicines
• Extra batteries or an alternative power source
• Matches in a waterproof container (allow an adult to help)
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap
• First-Aid kit
• Paper plates, plastic cups, plastic utensils, and paper towels
• Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Flashlights
• Helmet
• Sturdy shoes
• Whistle to signal for help
• Can opener (manual)
• Local maps
• Pet and service animal supplies
• Baby supplies (formula, diapers, etc.)
• Extra pair of eyeglasses
• Your container to put all these things in (Backpack is better)
• Activities (like cards and drawing)

PRO TIP :

Instead of getting food all at once, bring a little bit of non-perishable food every time you go grocery shopping and add it to your kit.

Soon, you'll have a good amount of food for you to eat in an emergency.

Due to COVID-19, please also consider adding these:

• Hand sanitizer
• Masks (Medical, if possible)

You will also need to store your kit somewhere that is:

• Easy to get to
• Cool, dry location

Not only that, but maintaining is also a job that needs to be done as well.

That can be done by:

• Replacing expiring items

I hope this was helpful!

Visit Build A Kit | Ready.gov for more information.

January 28, 2022