Make a Kit
Simple steps you can take now to be prepared for a public health emergency.
In the face of emergencies, many people feel lost and helpless. This can be avoided by being prepared for emergency situations:
- Make a plan
- Assemble an emergency supply kit
- Keep contact phone numbers on hand
Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit
During or after an emergency, you won’t have time to search for supplies. An emergency supply kit contains the basic items you and your loved ones would need during a public health emergency. This should be prepared in advance!
Keep the kit where you can reach it quickly in case of an emergency—whether you remain at home or evacuate to a safe place. Place the kit in an easy-to-carry container like a trash container, backpack or duffel bag.
Recommended supplies include:
- Water, at least one gallon/person/day for at least three days, stored in a plastic container
- A three-day supply of nonperishable food.
TIP: Don’t forget those with special diets such as diabetics. - A first-aid kit
- Prescription medications—watch for expiration dates
- Battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries
- Can opener
- Bedding for each person
- Personal hygiene products
- Dust mask or cotton T-shirt for each person to help filter the air
- A whistle to signal for help
- Important family documents in waterproof container—birth certificates, copies of medical prescriptions, insurance policies, and identification
- Special items for infants, elderly or a family member with a disability
Review the contents of your kit periodically to make sure food and water are fresh and prescription medicines are up-to-date. Store the kit in a place known to all household members.
Click to download detailed emergency supply kit checklist.
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