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.

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. Headed to the store? Download a printable version to take with you. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

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 (one gallon 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 and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Download the Recommended Supplies List (PDF)

Additional Emergency Supplies

Since Spring of 2020, the CDC has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
• Prescription medications
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler’s checks
• 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
• 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 pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

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.

It’s your worst-case scenario. A major storm was predicted and this time, the predictions were right.

Many power lines are down, and your electricity may be out for several days. You are low on everything––food, pet supplies, toilet paper, batteries, diapers and your medication.

Imagine how you would feel in this situation. While you can’t predict which weather forecast will come true, you can plan ahead so when a severe weather event strikes, you have the tools and resources to effectively weather the storm. The Department of Homeland Security offers several resources to help you prepare for major weather events and natural disasters. Visit www.ready.gov/make-a-plan.

Preparedness Actions and Items

• Stock your pantry with a three-day supply of non-perishable food, such as canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, instant coffee, water and other essentials (i.e., diapers and toiletries).
• Confirm that you have adequate sanitation and hygiene supplies including towelettes, soap and hand sanitizer.
• Ensure your First Aid kit is stocked with pain relievers, bandages and other medical essentials, and make sure your prescriptions are current.
• Set aside basic household items you will need, including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener and portable, battery-powered radio or TV.
• Organize emergency supplies so they are together in an easily accessible location.

With advance warning

If a severe storm is expected with high winds and sustained rain, you may need to take extra steps to safeguard your home. Shutter windows and securely close exterior doors. Fully charge all cell phones, laptops and devices so you have maximum power in the event of a power outage. If you plan to use a small generator, make sure it’s rated to handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely.

During a prolonged outage

In the event of an outage, turn off appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This will help avert damage from a power surge, and will also help prevent overloading the circuits during power restoration. That said, do leave one light on so you will know when power is restored. If utilizing a small household generator, consider using LED holiday lights to illuminate a living area. A strand of 100 white lights draws little energy yet produces considerable light. Solar lights also work, if they can receive some sunlight during the day for charging.

During thunderstorms, the American Red Cross recommends avoiding electrical equipment and land-based telephones. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead. Keep away from windows. Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates, or check [Insert co-op/PPD/PUD name]’s app or website for restoration updates.

After the storm, avoid downed power lines and walking through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs – including on your property.

Power in planning

Advance planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety caused by the weather event and can lessen the impact of the storm’s effects. Sign up for NOAA emergency alerts and warnings and install [Insert co-op/PPD/PUD name]’s app to your phone to stay abreast of restoration efforts and other important co-op news and information. Act today, because there is power in planning.

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy.

A power outage may:

• Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.
• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.
• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.
• Prevent use of medical devices.

Protect yourself during a power outage:

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
• If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.
• Check on neighbors.

Stay safe when a storm threatens:  

Prepare NOW

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.
• Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.
• Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
• Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.
• Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.
• Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.
• Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

Survive DURING

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer.
• Maintain food supplies that do not require refrigeration.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves, or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
• Check on your neighbors. Older adults and young children are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
• Go to a community location with power if heat or cold is extreme.
• Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, or electronics. Power may return with momentary “surges” or “spikes” that can cause damage.

Be Safe AFTER

• When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color, or texture.
• If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. If a life depends on the refrigerated drugs, consult a doctor or pharmacist and use medicine only until a new supply is available.

Associated Content

• Power Outage Information Sheet (PDF)
• Department of Energy (Link)
• Individuals with Disabilities and Others with Access and Functional Needs (Link)
• Heat (Link)
• Winter Weather & Extreme Cold (Link)
• Centers for Disease Control (Link)
• Food Safety (Link)
• Generator Safety (Link)

Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and heart attacks from overexertion.

Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. A winter storm can:

• Last a few hours or several days;
• Knock out heat, power, and communication services; and
• Place older adults, young children, and sick individuals at greater risk.

If you are under a winter storm warning find shelter right away.

• Stay off roads.
• Stay indoors and dress warmly.
• Prepare for power outages.
• Use generators outside only and away from windows.
• Listen for emergency information and alerts.
• Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
• Check on neighbors.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A WINTER STORM THREATENS:

Prepare NOW

• Know your area’s risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
• Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
• Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
• Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
• Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.
• Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.

Survive DURING

• Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, then wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
• Reduce the risk of a heart attack. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and begin treatment right away.
• Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.

RECOGNIZE AND RESPOND

• Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes.

  • Signs: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin
  • Actions: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water. Use body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad.

• Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency.

  • Signs: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, or drowsiness
  • Actions: Go to a warm room. Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.

Associated Content

• Winter Safety Social Media Toolkit
• Winter Storm Information Sheet (PDF)
• Protective Actions Research for Winter Storm
• National Weather Service
• American Red Cross
• When The Sky Turns Gray – Animated (Video)

Get Informed

• Know what disasters could affect your area, which could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
• Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV, radio and follow mobile alert and mobile warnings about severe weather in your area.
• Download the FEMA app and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.

Make a Plan

In times of disasters, colleges and universities serve as key emergency management partners to federal, state, local, tribal, territory and private sector organizations. Institutions are encouraged to regularly review, update and exercise their emergency plans several times a year.

Resources

• Guide for Developing High-Quality Emergency Operations Plans for Institutions of Higher Education (PDF)
• Addressing Emergencies on Campus Guidance (PDF)
• Individuals with Access and Functional Needs (Link)
• Emergency plan guide for people with disabilities (PDF)

Student, Faculty and Staff Emergency Plans

• Homeland Security Academic Advisory Council (HSAAC) (Link)
• Immigration and Customs (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program Emergency Evacuation Tips (Link)
• Access to Emergency Alerts for People with Disabilities (Link)

Get Informed

• Know what disasters could affect your area, which could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
• Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV, radio and follow mobile alert and mobile warnings about severe weather in your area.
• Download the FEMA app and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.

Make a Plan

Remember, during a disaster what’s good for you is good for your pet, so get them ready today.

If you leave your pets behind, they may be lost, injured or worse. Never leave a pet chained outdoors. Plan options include:

• Create a buddy system in case you’re not home. Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your animals.
• Identify shelters. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets.
  • Find pet friendly hotels along your evacuation route and keep a list in your pet’s emergency kit.
  • Locate boarding facilities or animal hospitals near your evacuation shelter.
  • Consider an out-of-town friend or relative.
• Locate a veterinarian or animal hospital in the area where you may be seeking temporary shelter in case your pet needs medical care. Add the contact information to your emergency kit.
• Have your pet microchipped and make sure that you not only keep your address and phone number up-to-date, but that you also include contact info for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.
• Call your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get advice and information.
• If you are unable to return to your home right away, you may need to board your pet. Find out where pet boarding facilities are located.
• Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet’s medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current.
• If you have no alternative but to leave your pet at home, there are some precautions you must take, but remember that leaving your pet at home alone can place your animal in great danger!

Tips for Large Animals

If you have large animals such as horses, cattle, sheep, goats or pigs on your property, be sure to prepare before a disaster.

• Ensure all animals have some form of identification.
• Evacuate animals whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.
• Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal. Also make available experienced handlers and drivers.
• Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care and handling equipment.
• If evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to shelter or turn them outside.

Take extra time to observe livestock, looking for early signs of disease and injury. Severe cold-weather injuries or death primarily occur in the very young or in animals that are already debilitated.

Animals suffering from frostbite don’t exhibit pain. It may be up to two weeks before the injury becomes evident as the damaged tissue starts to slough away. At that point, the injury should be treated as an open wound and a veterinarian should be consulted.

Make sure your livestock has the following to help prevent cold-weather problems:

• Plenty of dry bedding to insulate vulnerable udders, genitals and legs from the frozen ground and frigid winds.
• Windbreaks to keep animals safe from frigid conditions.
• Plenty of food and water.

Build a Kit

Include basic survival items and items to keep your pet happy and comfortable. Start with this list or download Preparing Makes Sense for Pet Owners-Emergency Preparedness Pet Kit List (PDF)  to find out exactly what items your pet needs to be Ready.

Your kit should include:

• Food (at least a three day supply in an airtight, waterproof container)
• Water (at least three days of water specifically for your pets)
• Medicines
• Medical records, proof of vaccinations, registration and adoption documents (talk to your veterinarian about microchipping)
• First aid kit (cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol, saline solution and a pet first aid reference book)
• Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash
• Crate or pet carrier (a sturdy, safe crate or carrier large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down)
• Sanitation needs (litter box and litter, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach)
• A picture of you and your pet together to prove ownership (add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics)
• Familiar items (treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet)