Get a Kit

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Have at least three days of supplies in an easy-to-carry evacuation kit, with additional supplies on hand. Your list of supplies should include:

• Water
• Food
• First Aid Supplies
• Protective Clothing and Bedding
• Tools
• Special Items

Remember to check your kit and replace the stock every six months.

Store your disaster supplies in sturdy yet easy-to-carry containers, in a place that is easily accessible. Keep a smaller version of the kit in your vehicle. If you become stranded or are not able to return home, having some items with you will help.

• Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members. Keep a smaller version of the Disaster Supplies Kit in the trunk of your car.
• Keep the items in air tight plastic bags.
• Change and replace your stored water and stored food every six months.
• Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year.
• Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.
• Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications.

Make sure your emergency disaster supply kit is stocked and ready. Create your own, or buy a starter supplies kit from the Red Cross online store.

Get a Kit Checklist  [ printable version ]
Are you Prepared? Check off the items below that you already have, then print off the checklist to take with you as you track down the items you still need. Use the list the next time you go to the store to remind you which items you need to be fully prepared.

• Water. Have at least one gallon per person per day. Use bleach or water tablets to purify tap water if contaminated.
   

• Food. Pack at least a three-day supply of non-perishable, high-protein items, including energy bars, ready-to-eat soup, peanut butter, etc. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water.
   

• Flashlight. Hand crank and alternative energy options are available. Include extra batteries, if applicable.
   

• First aid kit. Include a first aid reference guide.
   

• Medications. Don't forget prescription and non-prescription items.
   

• Radio. A National Oceanic Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Weather radio is best. Include extra batteries or use a hand-crank radio.
   

• Tools. Gather a wrench to turn off gas (if necessary), a manual can opener, screwdriver, hammer, pliers, knife, duct tape, plastic sheeting, garbage bags and ties.
   

• Clothing. Provide a change of clothes for everyone, including sturdy shoes and gloves.
   

• Personal items. Remember copies of important papers (including identification cards, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports, etc.), eyeglasses, contact lenses and solution, and comfort items like toys and books, if pertinent.
   

• Sanitary supplies. You may need toilet paper, towelettes, feminine supplies, personal hygiene items, bleach, etc.
   

• Money. Have cash on hand. Remember ATMs and credit cards won't work if the power is out.
   

• Contact information. Carry a current list of family phone numbers and e-mail addresses, including someone out of the area who may be easier to reach if local phone lines are out of service or overloaded.
   

• Pet supplies. For each pet, include food, water, a collar, a leash / cage / carrying case, litter box or plastic bags, tags, any medications and vaccination information.
   

• Map. Consider marking an evacuation route on your map that directs you out of your area.
   

Kit for Disabled and Special Needs Checklist  [ printable version ]
If you are disabled or have special needs, there are a few additional items you will need to consider. Check off which items you already have and print a copy of the list to remind you which items you still need.

• Prescription medicines, list of medications including dosage, list of any allergies.
• Extra eyeglasses and hearing-aid batteries.
• Extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen.
• Medical insurance and Medicare cards.
• List of doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt.