Are You Ready Checklist
An emergency could happen at any time and it’s important to be prepared. The checklist below will help
you to prepare at home. First and foremost, consider what you would need for basic survival: fresh
water, food, clean air and warmth.
Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Personal Emergency Supply Kit:
ı One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
ı At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
ı A battery-powered radio and extra batteries
ı A flashlight and extra batteries
ı A first aid kit
ı A whistle to signal for help
ı Dust masks to help filter contaminated air
ı Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
ı Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
ı A wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
ı A can opener if your emergency kit contains canned food
ı Local maps
Additional Items to Consider Adding to a Personal Emergency Supply Kit:
ı Prescription medications
ı Eye glasses, extra contact lenses, a lens case and lens solution
ı Infant formula, bottles, diapers
ı Pet food and extra water
ı Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account
records in a waterproof, portable container
ı Cash or traveler’s checks, change and a credit card
ı Emergency reference material such as a first aid book
ı A sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a
cold-weather climate.
ı A complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.
Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
ı Household chlorine bleach and a medicine dropper – When diluted, nine parts water to one part
bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water
by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented,
color-safe or bleach with added cleaners.
ı A fire extinguisher
ı Matches in a waterproof container
ı Candles enclosed in glass jars
ı Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
ı Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
ı Paper and pen/pencil
ı Books, games, puzzles or other activities for both children and adults
