A useful emergency kit is a system, not a prepacked bag with a large item count. Build around the functions you must maintain when normal services are disrupted.
Core functions
- Water and a way to make questionable water safer
- Food that works with your available water and cooking
- First-aid supplies appropriate to your household
- Lighting and spare power
- Communication and information
- Weather-appropriate clothing and shelter
- Sanitation and hygiene
- Copies of critical information and household-specific supplies
For a compact planning window, use our 72-hour kit checklist. For the broader home plan, start with the emergency preparedness checklist.