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