Preparing a Home Emergency Kit
Thinking about natural disasters and other emergencies might not be pleasant, but being prepared protects you, your home and your loved ones. Organizations such as the Red Cross and FEMA have long advocated for home emergency kits, but with the occurrence of more and more extreme weather, natural disasters and the dawn of COVID-19, it is now more critical than ever to have a home emergency kit. Below we outline the items and quantities experts recommend you keep on hand.
7 Basics Components of an at Home Emergency Kit
Water and food. The Red Cross recommends having a gallon of water per person, per day, on hand. It is vital to remember that water will go quickly as it might be used for drinking, cooking, bathing and other sanitation needs. Moreover, nonperishable food (along with a can opener) should be on hand. Some of the best, and most nutritious, nonperishable food sources include canned seafood (think tuna and salmon), nuts and seeds and nut butters, low-sodium soup and broths, granola bars, jerky, beans and dried fruit. Some experts recommend planning for adults to have access to about 2,000 calories a day and to have enough food for three days up to two weeks.
First aid kit. Many individuals understand the importance of a first aid kit, yet not everyone keeps theirs fully stocked and in the same easy-to-access location. The Red Cross advises keeping one at home, at work and in your car. Your at-home kit should include, at a minimum, assorted adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze and tape, aspirin and other over-the-counter pain and fever relievers, and gloves. Additional items might include instant ice packs, skin creams, such as hydrocortisone and/or antibiotic ointment, children’s medicine and tweezers. It is also very important to check items and their condition and expiration dates on a regular basis.
Flashlights and extra batteries. These are also common emergency items. Do not make the mistake of relying on your cell phone flashlight as you might not be able to charge your phone.
Blankets. Blankets for each member of your household (and perhaps sleeping bags) are also highly advised — not just for comfort but also for warmth. Just like first aid kits, blankets should also be kept in your car.
Tools. FEMA suggests having basic tools such as a wrench or pliers should the need arise to turn off utilities in some emergency situations.
Chargers and an “old-fashioned” radio. Of course access to cell phone charges is important but so is an old-fashioned radio in case you cannot charge your phone. This will allow you to have access to important news and information in your area.
Mask and hand sanitizer. COVID-19 sparked adding masks and hand sanitizer to the basic emergency kit list. Disposable masks are best in case you cannot do laundry, and when it comes to sanitizer, the CDC calls for hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or more because it is the most effective against germs.
Additional Considerations
Additional items will depend on your geographic location and the specifics of your household. For instance, if you live in an area at risk for wildfires or floods, this will certainly inform your planning. If you have children and/or pets, you will need to expand your kit to accommodate their needs. With this in mind, additional emergency considerations include:
Prescription medicines and medical devices (daily pills, epi pens, inhalers, etc.)
Whistles to call for help
Local maps of your area
Entertainment and comfort items for children (books, games, stuffed animals)
Pet supplies such as food, leashes and pet sanitary items (don’t forget to include your pet in your water supply planning)
More powerful tools such as chain saws and axes, especially if you live in a wooded area and might have to deal with fallen trees
Cash in case you do not have access to ATMs and banks
Final Thoughts
We are all well-served by applying the Scout motto “be prepared” when considering how best to organize supplies and required needs in the event of an emergency, whether stemming from nature or man. Having an at-home emergency kit fully stocked and conveniently located is one of the only sure ways to act safely and immediately if an emergency should occur.
