Prepare
Make Your Own Ready Kit
Make a Ready kit with the items on the checklist. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find. Plus any one of them could save your life. Download a printable version to take with you to the store.
Recommended Items
- Can opener - for food, if kit contains canned food
- Face mask - to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Food - at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food
- Local maps
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Radio - battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert, and extra batteries for both
- Water - 1 gallon per person per day, for at least 3 days, for drinking and sanitation
- Whistle - to signal for help
- Wrench or pliers - to turn off utilities
Additional Items
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
- Cash or traveler's checks and change
- Complete change of clothing. Include a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider adding clothing in cold weather
- Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from Ready America
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Fire extinguisher
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
- Infant formula and diapers
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils, paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Pet food, extra water, pet supplies, toys and vaccination forms. More information can be found here
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider adding bedding in cold weather