When disaster strikes, you might not be able to buy essential items. If businesses close, fallen trees block roads, roads are flooded, and/or the power goes out in your area, you will need to have available an Emergency Supply Kit.

Your kit needs to contain (at a minimum):

• Water: at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
• Food: at least enough for 3 to 7 days—nonperishable items, canned food & juices, high energy snack foods,
• Non-electric can opener, cooking utensils (pots and pans), paper plates and plastic utensils
• Special dietary items for infant, elderly or diet restricted members of the household (For more information about preparing special needs family members for disasters, please see the Emergency Plan Considerations for Special Needs Citizens.)
• A 3 to 7 day supply of food and water for your pets
• First aid kit that includes a list of any family members’ allergies
• Extra contact lenses and/or eyeglasses
• A week’s supply of prescription medications
• Sanitation supplies, including toilet paper, soap, plastic garbage bags
• A change of clothing and footwear for each family member
• Blankets and/or sleeping bags
• Personal hygiene items
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery operated AM/FM radio with NOAA weather capabilities. Listen to local radio stations for local emergency information.
• A corded phone
• A basic tool set
• Cash in small denominations (Banks and/or ATM’s may not be open)
• Important documents (home & health insurance information, banking information, passports, credit card information, etc)
• Toys, books, and games to keep children (and aduls!) entertained. For more information about preparing your children for disasters, please see the Planning With Your Children page.

In addition, make sure your vehicles are full of fuel in case you must suddenly evacuate.

If you need to evacuate, add the following items to your emergency kit to take with you:

• Pet supplies, including a carrier or leash, food and bowls, cat litter and litter box, medications and schedules, identification, contact information, veterinary shot records, beds and toys.
• Keys (extra set to home and vehicles)

Also, contact an out of the area friend or family and let them know of your plans.

If you are sure you have enough time, and know how to do so safely, shut off water, gas and electricity. Gas must be turned back on by a professional.