Preparing a 72 Hour Basic Emergency Kit

Most emergencies occur without warning and there is little time to make plans on how to respond.  Emergency crews will be focused on assisting people with immediate and urgent dangers.  You should plan on being self sufficient for at least 72 hours or more while crews work on restoring conditions to normal.  Emergency items should be stored in a backpack, duffel bag or luggage so they can be easily transported should the need arise (a carrier with wheels would be easier to transport if you are on foot and need to evacuate).  It should be kept in a cool dry area and each member of the household should know where it is kept.   It should be checked once a year and consist of:

• Water–4L per person per day (2L drinking/2L washing/food prep/hygiene)
• Non-perishable food
• Manual can opener
• First Aid Kit
• Prescription medications
• Money – include small bills & change (credit cards/debit may not work)
• Battery operated lantern
• Spare batteries (if required for radio/lantern)
• Toilet paper, feminine hygiene products & other personal supplies
• Warm clothing & footwear
• Blanket or sleeping bag for each person
• Soap, shampoo & gel hand sanitizer
• Crank flashlight
• Basic analog telephone
• Crank radio or radio & batteries
• Plastic garbage bags
• Toothbrushes & toothpaste
• Whistle to attract attention
• Spare house & car keys
• A copy of your emergency plan
• Emergency contact information
• Playing cards, games or small toys
• Recent photos of each family member
• Copies of important documents (driver’s license, insurance, passports, etc.)
• Infant supplies & diapers if needed

Additional Items could include:

• Small camping stove & fuel for cooking outside
• Utility knife
• Duct tape
• Basic toolkit
• Work gloves
• Dust masks
• Tarps or plastic sheeting
• 2-3 pots or pans
• Disposable dishes, cups, cutlery
• Disposable razors & shaving cream