Build a household emergency kit

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Having an emergency kit is important to protect your household when unforeseen events happen. It is essential to provide vital items for you and your family for short term survival. Keep your emergency kit in a handy place known to everyone. If you have a lot of people in your household, you might want to make a personalized kit for each person instead of one large kit for the entire family.

Emergency kit checklist:

Fully stocked first aid kit including antiseptic, bandages, dressings, pain relievers, stomach remedies, allergy meds, scissors, tweasers, gloves and thermometer
Prescription medications
Flashlights and a battery-powered lantern with extra batteries
Whistle to signal for help
Local map with a pre-determined family meeting place
Fully charged cell phone and battery powered charger
3-day supply of non-perishable food including canned food (with a can opener), energy bars, granola, dried fruit and nuts, peanut butter, crackers, jam or jelly, cereal and baby food
Seasonal clothing and footwear
Water – at least 2 litres per person for 3 days – include small bottles that can be carried easily
Personal sanitation – soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, moist towelettes and garbage bags
Dust mask to filter contaminated air
Pocket knife and basic tools (hammer, screw driver, wrench, multi-tool)
Candles and matches or lighter
Duct tape and tarp
Cash in small bills, important papers, identification and personal documents
Battery powered or crank radio
Extra house keys and car keys
Blankets
Pen and paper
Backpack for each person