Emergency Kit

Build A Kit

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days (minimum 72 hours). A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find and any one of them could save your life.

To assemble your 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.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water (minimum 4 liters per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Signal whistle
• Dust and hygienic mask
• NRC foil to protect against cooling down or overheating
• Moist tissues, garbage bags
• Multitool, Finn knife
• Can opener
• Paper local maps
• Mobile phone with chargers and backup battery
• Soap, brush and toothpaste
• Hand disinfectant or gel
• Prescription glasses
• Baby milk or porridges, bottles, diapers, wipes and rash cream
• Food and extra water for your pet
• Credit cards, cash in various banknotes and a coin
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, ID cards, passports, bank contacts - stored electronically or in a waterproof, portable case
• A sleeping bag or a warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing suitable for the climate and sturdy shoes
• Personal hygiene items for women
• Meal set - paper cups, plates, paper towels and reusable plastic cutlery
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles and other toys for children and adults

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:

• Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
• Replace expired items as needed.
• Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Kit Storage Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars.

• Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
• Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
• Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.