Build an Emergency Kit

No matter where you live, major disasters can strike at any time. From hazards due to severe weather, to forest fires, earthquakes or a major power outage — how prepared are you and your family to cope without power, fresh water or the other basic services we take for granted?

Experts at the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction (ICLR) suggest every home should have a plan and an emergency preparedness kit so you can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency.

To prepare your kit, gather the items listed below and place them in a large, waterproof container which can be accessed easily in case of an emergency.

Emergency Preparedness Kit Essentials

1. WATER: at least 2 litres of clean water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. For a family of three, a 72-hour supply would be the equivalent of 18 two-litre bottles.
2. FOOD: non-perishable food to last 72 hours. Canned and dried goods that require minimal preparation are best – look for a mix of nutritious, high-energy and filling foods. Have a supply of baby formula available for babies. If you have pets, don’t forget their food too.
3. KITCHEN ESSENTIALS: basic supplies to prepare and serve food, such as plates, utensils and a manual can opener.
4. FIRST AID KIT: ready-made kits are available at most drugstores and many hardware outlets.
5. CLOTHING: at least one full change of warm clothes, plus rain gear and footwear for all family members.
6. DOCUMENTS: copies of essential documents, such as: will, driver’s licence, regular prescriptions, health card, insurance policy details and contact numbers.
7. MONEY: you should also include some cash in small bills and change for pay phones.
8. KEEP CLEAN: personal hygiene supplies to keep the family comfortable and sanitary. Include toilet paper, feminine supplies, hand sanitizer gel, soap and a sealed packet of diaper wipes (diaper wipes can be invaluable, even if you don’t have a baby).
9. LIGHTING: a good flashlight and/or camping lantern plus spare batteries. If you have one, a hand-cranked or battery-powered radio is a good idea too.
10. TOOL KIT: a hammer, nails, pliers, bungee cords, utility knife, hatchet, duct tape and heavy work gloves.
11. EXTRAS: heavy-duty garbage bags (for sanitation and also useful for covering broken windows), extra blankets or sleeping bags, towels and waterproof matches.