Have at least three days of supplies in an easy-to-carry evacuation kit, with additional supplies on hand. Remember to check your kit and replace the stock every six months.

Starting a disaster kit is easy with the American Red Cross.  Visit our online store to purchase materials or complete kits.

A Disaster Kit should begin with the following:

• Water:  Have at least one gallon of water per person per day.
• Food:  Pack non-perishable, high-protein items, including energy bars, ready to eat soup, peanut butter, etc.  Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and that need little or no water added.
• Flashlight:  Hand-crank and alternative energy options are available.  Include extra batteries if applicable.  A waterproof flashlight is suggested.
• First Aid Kit:  Include a first aid reference guide.
• Medications:  Do not forget prescription and non-prescription items.
• Radio:  Include extra batteries or use a hand-crank radio.
• Tools:  Gather a wrench to turn off gas if necessary, a manual can opener, screwdriver, hammer, pliers, knife, duct tape, plastic sheeting and garbage bags with ties.
• Clothing:  Provide a change of weather appropriate clothes for everyone, including sturdy shoes and gloves.
• Personal Items:  Remember copies of important papers, including identification cards, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports, etc.  Eyeglasses, contact lenses, and comfort items like toys and books should also be included.
• Sanitary Supplies:  You may need toilet paper, towelettes, feminine supplies, personal hygiene items, bleach, and sunscreen.
• Money:  Have cash.  ATM's and credit cards will not work if the power is out.
• Contact Information:  Carry a current list of family phone numbers, addresses, and e-mail addresses, including someone who lives out of the area (may be easier to reach if local phone lines are out of service or overloaded).
• Pet Supplies:  For each pet, include food, water, collar, leash, cage, carrying case, litter box, plastic bags, tags, as well as any medications and vaccination information.
• Map:  Consider marking several evacuation routes from your local area.
• Storage:  Store your kit in a sturdy, easy to carry container or containers, and put your kit in an easily accessible place.  Keep a smaller version of the kit in your vehicle.  If you become stranded or are not able to return home, having some items with you may help you be more comfortable until help arrives.

Have at least three days of supplies in an easy-to-carry evacuation kit, with additional supplies on hand. Remember to check your kit and replace the stock every six months.

Starting a disaster kit is easy with the American Red Cross.  Visit our online store to purchase materials or complete kits.

A Disaster Kit should begin with the following:

• Water:  Have at least one gallon of water per person per day.
• Food:  Pack non-perishable, high-protein items, including energy bars, ready to eat soup, peanut butter, etc.  Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and that need little or no water added.
• Flashlight:  Hand-crank and alternative energy options are available.  Include extra batteries if applicable.  A waterproof flashlight is suggested.
• First Aid Kit:  Include a first aid reference guide.
• Medications:  Do not forget prescription and non-prescription items.
• Radio:  Include extra batteries or use a hand-crank radio.
• Tools:  Gather a wrench to turn off gas if necessary, a manual can opener, screwdriver, hammer, pliers, knife, duct tape, plastic sheeting and garbage bags with ties.
• Clothing:  Provide a change of weather appropriate clothes for everyone, including sturdy shoes and gloves.
• Personal Items:  Remember copies of important papers, including identification cards, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports, etc.  Eyeglasses, contact lenses, and comfort items like toys and books should also be included.
• Sanitary Supplies:  You may need toilet paper, towelettes, feminine supplies, personal hygiene items, bleach, and sunscreen.
• Money:  Have cash.  ATM's and credit cards will not work if the power is out.
• Contact Information:  Carry a current list of family phone numbers, addresses, and e-mail addresses, including someone who lives out of the area (may be easier to reach if local phone lines are out of service or overloaded).
• Pet Supplies:  For each pet, include food, water, collar, leash, cage, carrying case, litter box, plastic bags, tags, as well as any medications and vaccination information.
• Map:  Consider marking several evacuation routes from your local area.
• Storage:  Store your kit in a sturdy, easy to carry container or containers, and put your kit in an easily accessible place.  Keep a smaller version of the kit in your vehicle.  If you become stranded or are not able to return home, having some items with you may help you be more comfortable until help arrives.