What to put in an emergency kit

01:32

How to build an emergency kit

Here are some tips to help you build the best emergency kit possible so that you're prepared for any natural disaster.

During a natural disaster, it may be necessary for you to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared with a stockpile of emergency supplies can help you make it through the crisis until normalcy is restored.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, you should at least have an emergency supply of food and water that can last for several days.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER ON YOUR TV

Every emergency kit should have these items

Bottled water on store shelves.

(HUM Images / Universal Images Group / Getty Images)

Here’s a list from FEMA of the supplies every emergency supply kit should include.

• Water — You need a gallon per person per day for several days. It will be used not only for drinking but also for sanitation.
• Food — You need at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
• Flashlight.
• First aid kit.

Johnson & Johnson first aid products are arranged for a photograph in Tiskilwa, Illinois, U.S., on Thursday, July 2, 2015.

(Daniel Acker / Bloomberg / Getty Images)

• Extra batteries.
• Whistle — You can use this to signal for help.
• Dust mask — You can use this to help filter the air in the event it becomes contaminated.
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape in case you need to shelter in place.

Close-up of hand of man holding roll of duct tape.

(Smith Collection / Gado / Getty Images)

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties.
• Wrench or pliers so that you can turn off utilities if need be.
• Manual can opener.
• Local maps.
• Cellphone with chargers and a backup battery.

HOW YOU CAN SAVE MONEY BUYING STORM SUPPLIES

Consider adding these other items to your emergency kit

Person with Multiple Sclerosis hand sorting prescription pills.

(Kurt Wittman / UCG / Universal Images Group / Getty Images)

FEMA also recommends you include the following items in your emergency kit, based on your personal needs.

• Masks — You should have masks for everyone ages 2 and above. Also, make sure you have soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes. This is recommended by the CDC in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
• Prescription medications.
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives.
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution.
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream.
• Pet food and extra water for your pet.

Dog drinks out of a bowl.

(Rodin Eckenroth / Getty Images)

• Cash or traveler's checks.
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person.
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes.
• Fire extinguisher.

Fire extinguishers for sale at a store.

(Justin Sullivan / Getty Images)

• Matches in a waterproof container.
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils.
• Paper and pencil.
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

LEARN HOW TO SURVIVE A HURRICANE IF YOU DIDN'T EVACUATE

Maintain your emergency supply kit

Canned goods.

(Ben Hasty / MediaNews Group / Reading Eagle / Getty Images)

According to FEMA, you should maintain your emergency kit once it’s assembled. This will ensure that it’s ready to go in the event of a natural disaster.

Canned goods should be stored in a cool, dry place, and boxed foods should be stored in plastic or metal containers that tightly close, according to FEMA.

Don’t forget to replace survival items in your disaster supply kit that have expired.

GET THE LATEST EPISODE OF THE FOX WEATHER UPDATE PODCAST

More info

FEMA has more guidance about where and how you should store your kit at ready.gov/kit.