The first thing most people think about when they begin their emergency planning is a natural disaster. This emergency preparedness checklist is based on that scenario and is a good place to start in your effort to Be Ready.
The website Ready.gov says, “All Americans should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs.”
Based on natural disaster statistics since 2010, we recommend that you plan for a minimum of 5 days up to two weeks for utilities to be restored, depending on the emergency.
This checklist uses the Rule of 3’s, along with the 10 C’s of survival, to “upgrade” the basic checklist offered by the U.S. government. Always review checklists like this and consider or adjust for the unique needs of you, and your family, to create a checklist that meets your needs.
Basic Emergency Planning Items
These items are good to have in most emergency planning situations involving natural disasters. Be sure to keep your “kit” all together and in one place, where possible.
- Water
- Food
- First aid kit
- Flashlight, headlamp, lantern, candles
- Emergency radio with a hand crank and NOAA weather
- Batteries
- Signalling whistle
- Blankets, sleeping bags, pillows
- Bic lighter or matches in a waterproof container
- Toilet paper or Moist towelettes
- Garbage bags
- Duct tape
- Zip ties in various sizes
Tools and Other Essentials
These items should also be included in most kits. Depending on the possible scenarios you expect to face, consider adding these items to your kit.
- Rope or cordage
- Wrench or pliers
- Multi-tool
- Fixed-blade knife
- Dust mask or face covering
- Fire Extinguisher
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles, etc.
If You Have to Leave
Sometimes, you just can’t stay in your home when an emergency is eminent. If you may have to leave your home, add these items to your emergency plan and have them ready to go when the time comes.
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Important family documents
- Cash or traveler’s checks and change
- Extra clothes
- Feminine hygiene items
- Mess kits, disposable cups, plates, towels, utensils
- Maps
The list of things that you might add to your emergency preparedness kit is almost endless. It really just depends on what sort of events you are planning for and what you feel you should have with you.
Please download this checklist and use it to start building your own emergency preparedness kit.
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