riversideca.gov

Must Have Items for Your Home Emergency Kit

Published: 09/17/2019




Stay Prepared! Build an emergency kit!

YOUR 3-DAY EMERGENCY KIT

Natural or man-made disaster events can occur at any time. To assemble your 3-day kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag

Consider the unique needs of you and your family, and add other items you may require. Keep emergency kits at home, and consider creating a portable kit for your vehicle and workplace. More information can be found at Ready.gov

 

What Should Be Included in Your Kit

Water: 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days, for drinking and sanitation (2-week supply, if possible)

Food: At least 3-day supply of nonperishable food (2-week supply, if possible)

Battery-powered or hand crank radio.

Flashlight and extra batteries

First aid kit and first aid book

Whistle to signal for help

Dust mask to help filter contaminated air

Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

Moist towelettes, toilet paper, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

Manual can opener for food

Cell phone with chargers and backup batteries

Prescription medications and non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, antidiarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

Glasses, contact lenses and contact lens solution

Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream

Personal toiletries: soap, toothbrush and toothpaste

Pet food, medicine, and extra water for your pet

Cash (small denominations are best)

Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water

Coffee filters, paper towels, and clean cloth to filter water.

Fire extinguisher

Matches in a waterproof container

Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

Paper and pens (check ink)

Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

 

Maintain your kit so it’s ready when you need it

Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.

Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers (rotate food and keep track of expiration dates). Replace expired items.

To learn about ways to protect your home, family, and pets in the event of an emergency, click here:

Explore Riverside Magazine