Building Your Family’s Emergency Kit
Planning for emergencies makes sense.
For natural disasters and other emergencies, you should have supplies for at least a week. More is always better, especially for a flu pandemic that would last for weeks at a minimum.
Food and water: Store one gallon of water per person per day and extra for pets.
Include familiar foods that your family enjoys. Choose non-perishable foods that need little to no cooking. All canned soups, meats, fruits, and vegetables are great. Remember a manual can opener.
Other ideas include peanut butter, boxes of non-perishable pasteurized milk, dried milk, crackers, and comfort foods like candy and flavored drink powder. Date the foods and rotate them into your usual meals to maintain fresh supplies.
If you have an infant, include baby food and ready-to-use formula. Don’t forget food for your pets!
Emergency equipment: Include flashlights, a battery-operated AM/FM radio, and NOAA weather radio with extra batteries. Other items include: a first-aid kit, medicine dropper, trash bags, unscented household bleach, personal hygiene items (toilet paper and soap), matches, a wrench to shut off utilities, a change of clothes for everyone including sturdy shoes, plus a sleeping bag and extra blankets for everyone. A complete list can be found at
Important papers: Include copies of important documents in a waterproof container, including insurance paperwork, legal documents, identification, and bank records. Include medical information for each family member, like a list of medications, chronic conditions, and drug allergies. Remember pets’ vaccination records and a photograph in case they get lost. You should also include cash and change.
Medical items: A basic first-aid kit should include adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, and dressings. Tweezers, antibiotic ointment, adhesive tape, scissors, antiseptic wipes, latex gloves, cold pack, and CPR breathing shield. If anyone uses prescription medication, ask your insurance company about getting an extra supply.
There are special items to include for a flu pandemic: a bottle of ibuprofen (not aspirin) for each family member, cough syrup, antacids, and anti-diarrhea medicine. Include a thermometer (and a back-up), tissues, disinfectant, hand sanitizer, and gloves. More information can be found online at
Keep a large kit at home and smaller kits in each vehicle and at work.
Rhiannon Brewer is the public relations and information specialist for the Northeast Health District and can be reached at .