Preparing for an emergency means having everything you need to survive for 72 hours. Here’s what you’ll need to stay safe and comfortable:

Basic Essentials

Water
- 1 gallon per person per day (for at least 3 days).
- Example: For 5 people, you’ll need 15 gallons.

Food
- Nonperishable, easy-to-store items (e.g., canned goods, freeze-dried meals).
- Don’t forget a manual can opener.

Lighting
- Flashlight and extra batteries.

Radio
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio. Preferably NOAA Weather Radio.

First Aid Kit
- Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, tweezers, pain relievers, and medical tape.

Medications
- Prescription drugs and over-the-counter essentials like pain relievers or allergy meds.
- Include an extra pair of glasses if needed.

Tools & Repairs
- Multi-purpose tool (like a Swiss Army knife) and duct tape.

Hygiene & Sanitation
- Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and basic hygiene items.

Documents
- Copies of birth certificates, Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, deeds/leases, passports, insurance policies, and a medication list.
- Store these in a waterproof bag (e.g., ziplock).

Communication
- Cell phone with chargers.
- A written list of emergency contacts (in case your phone dies).

Cash
- Small bills and coins for emergencies when ATMs or card systems don’t work.

Emergency Blanket
- Lightweight foil blankets are compact and efficient.

Maps
- Local and regional maps for navigation.

Additional Kits

For Californians and others in disaster-prone areas:

Home Emergency Kit
- A complete survival kit for all household members, stored in an accessible spot.

Work Kit
- A smaller kit for emergencies during work hours.

Car Kit
- Compact version stored in your vehicle with extra water and a phone charger.

Pet Emergency Kit

Your pets need their own survival supplies!

Water
- Same 1-gallon-per-day rule applies to your pets.

Food
- Dry or canned food for 7–10 days.

ID & Documentation
- Collar, ID tag, license, and proof of vaccination.

Carrier & Leash
- Sturdy carrier and extra leash.

Bowl & Supplies
- Food and water bowls, waste bags, and any medications they need.

3 Key Reminders

• Regularly rotate items like food, water, and medications to prevent spoilage.

• Customize your kits based on your family’s unique needs (e.g., baby supplies, medical devices).

• Store kits in easy-to-access locations like closets, cars, or desks.

With these preparations, you’ll be ready to face emergencies with confidence!

Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.

❤ If you liked all this, consider supporting us by checking out Tiny Skills - 250+ Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy