Pack an emergency supply kit. Here’s what you’ll need:
You will need the following supplies when you leave your home; put them all together in a duffel bag or other large container in advance:
- Flashlight and radio with plenty of extra batteries
- First aid kit (bandages, aspirin, disinfectant swabs)
- Prescription medications (at least a 2 weeks supply) in their original bottle
- Eyeglasses (with a copy of the prescription) or contacts and contact solution
- Water (at least one gallon per person per day is recommended; more is better)
- Foods that do not require refrigeration or cooking
- Coolers for food storage
- Items that infants and elderly household members may require
- Medical equipment and devices, such as dentures, crutches, prostheses, etc.
- Change of clothes for each household member
- Sleeping bag or bedroll and pillow for each household member
- Checkbook, cash in large and small bills and credit cards
- Map of the area
- Cell phone charger and car charger if you have one
- Charge your laptop computer batteries
- Digital camera, camera with film or disposable camera for before/after pictures of property
- Books, games, toys for children
- Disposable plates and utensils
- Manual can opener and scissors
- Toilet Paper
- Insect repellent, sunscreen
Examples of non-perishable food:
- Powdered milk or evaporated milk
- Canned meats/fish
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Jello and pudding cups
- Canned soups
- Dry fruit and nuts
- Cereal
- Crackers
- Instant coffee/tea
- Instant noodles
Important papers to take with you:
- Driver’s license or personal identification
- Social Security card
- Proof of residence (deed or lease)
- Insurance policies
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Stocks, bonds, and other negotiable certificates
- Wills, deeds, and copies of recent tax returns
Taking Care of Others
You may need additional supplies to make sure the whole family is ready.
For Children:
- Baby supplies like bottles, formula, baby food, and diapers
- Games and activities for children
For Pets:
- Food and Water:
- A 3-day supply of food and water for each pet. A cat or a dog will generally need 1 gallon for three days; Bowls or bottles and Manual can opener
- Cleaning Supplies:
- Depending on the pet, you may need a litter box, paper towels, plastic trash bags, grooming items, and household bleach
- Health and Safety:
- Medicines and medical records stored in a waterproof container, first aid kit
- Transport supplies:
- A sturdy leash, harness, and carrier to transport pets safely. A carrier should be large enough for the animal to stand comfortably, turn around, and lie down.
- Comfort Items:
- Pet toys and the pet’s bed, if you can easily bring it, to reduce stress
- Paperwork:
- Current photos and descriptions of your pets to help others identify them, and to prove that they are your pets, in case you become separated from them
Click NC State PACK Ready – Emergency Supply checklist for a printable version (PDF)