Go Kit

Every household should pack a Go Bag — a collection of items you may need in the event of an evacuation. A Go Bag should be packed in a sturdy, easy-to-carry container such as a backpack or suitcase on wheels. A Go Bag should be easily accessible if you have to leave your home in a hurry. Make sure it is ready to go at all times of the year.

Copies of your important documents in a waterproof and portable container (insurance cards, birth certificates, deeds, photo IDs, proof of address, etc.)

Extra set of car and house keys

Credit and ATM cards and cash, especially in small denominations. We recommend you keep at least $50-$100 on hand.

Bottled water and nonperishable food, such as energy or granola bars

Flashlight
Note: Traditional flashlight bulbs have limited lifespans. Light Emitting Diode (LED) flashlights, however, are more durable and last up to 10 times longer than traditional bulbs.

Battery-operated AM/FM radio and extra batteries

Keep a list of the medications each member of your household takes, why they take them, and their dosages. Medication information and other essential personal items. If you store extra medication in your Go Bag, be sure to refill it before it expires.

First aid kit

Contact and meeting place information for your household, and a small regional map

Child care supplies or other special care items

Lightweight raingear and Mylar blanket

Food

When a disaster occurs, you might not have access to food, water and electricity for days, or even weeks. Store enough emergency food to provide for your family for at least 3 days.

Store food items that are familiar, rather than buying special emergency food. Consider any dietary restrictions and preferences you may have.

Ideal foods are: Shelf-stable (no refrigeration required), low in salt, and do not require cooking (e.g. canned fruit, vegetables, peanut butter, jam, low-salt crackers, cookies, cereals, nuts, dried fruit, canned soup or meats, juices and non-fat dry milk).

Mark a rotation date on any food container that does not already have an expiration date on the package.

Include baby food and formula or other diet items for infants or seniors.

Store the food in airtight, pest-resistant containers in a cool, dark place.

Most canned foods can safely be stored for at least 18 months. Low acid foods like meat products, fruits or vegetables will normally last at least 2 years. Use dry products, like boxed cereal, crackers, cookies, dried milk or dried fruit within six months.

After a power outage, refrigerated food will stay cold longer if you keep the door closed. Food should generally be consumed within 4-6 hours. Food in the freezer will normally remain safe for 2 days.  

   

Emergency Supply Kit

Keep enough supplies in your home to survive on your own, or shelter in place, for at least three days. If possible, keep these materials in an easily accessible, separate container or special cupboard. You should indicate to your household members that these supplies are for emergencies only. Check expiration dates of food and update your kits when you change your clock during daylight-saving times.

One gallon of drinking water per person per day

Nonperishable, ready-to-eat canned foods and manual can opener

First aid kit

Flashlight
Note: Traditional flashlight bulbs have limited lifespan. Light Emitting Diode (LED) flashlights, however, are more durable and last up to 10 times longer than traditional bulbs.

Battery-operated AM/FM radio and extra batteries (you can also buy wind-up radios that do not require batteries)

Whistle

Iodine tablets or one quart of unscented bleach (for disinfecting water ONLY if directed to do so by health officials) and eyedropper (for adding bleach to water)

Personal hygiene items: soap, feminine hygiene products, toothbrush and toothpaste, etc.

Phone that does not rely on electricity

Child care supplies or other special care items

Medicine and other health items

Pet food and supplies (including a pet carrier/cage)